Though mostly known for his time as violinist with Cecil Taylor, Ramsey Ameen was a musician, polymath, computer engineer, mathematician and philosopher. When I learned we lived close by each other we began to drive together to gigs in NYC. Ramsey was well versed in any subject I could bring up, and could discuss deeply for hours. And we did. Bach, Ornette Coleman, Gurdjieff, Blavatsky, geometry, world events, politics, et al. I called him about recording a duo with him on violin and guitarist Dom Minasi. Two days later I learned Ramsey had passed. A shock to say the least, heartbreaking news at the loss of this dear friend and great man. This album, Ramsey, is dedicated to him.
This performance by Sumari at a concert in memory of Ramsey with several ensembles was recorded at Scholes Street Studio in Brooklyn, NY.
The performance was attended by numerous Downtown Music luminaries and is likely the last recording from Sumari, an improvising unit that started as a trio and was later augmented by the presence of double-bass master Hilliard Greene. Sumari recorded 5 previous album for Unseen Rain Records. This album, Ramsey, has three extensive tracks with the last one a surprise blues. - Jack DeSalvo
1. Piece 1 for Ramsey 19:42
2. Piece 2 for Ramsey 13:54
3. Blues for Ramsey 07:28
MATT LAVELLE - Trumpet, Alto & Bass Clarinets
JACK DeSALVO - Guitar
HILLIARD GREENE - Double Bass
TOM CABRERA - Drums
Recorded at Schole Street Studio, Brooklyn, NY by René Allain
Mixed and mastered by Larry Hutter, Orlando, FL
Cover painting by Tom Cabrera, design by Qua's Eye Graphix
Produced by Jack DeSalvo
In memory of Ramsey Ameen (1945-2019)
