Saxophonist and occasional Friend of Phil Greg Osby will release 9 Levels on his own label Inner Circle Music. The album is said to offer Osbys perspective on
‘The 9 Levels of Humanity’ with the aid of vocalist Sara Serpa, guitarist Nir Felder, pianist Adam Birnbaum, bassist Joseph Lepore and drummer Hamir Atwal.
‘I wanted to take advantage of having such well developed and proficient musicians who could confidently play anything I presented them with,’ Osby said in a statement. ‘It isn’t often that I enjoy the luxury of having a foil of Sara’s caliber along with such a strong band to boot.’ It’s equally inspiring and challenging to be able to relay musical information back and forth with players who are so skillful and who possess such a high level of musicality.’
Osby is currently in the midst of a six-night run at New Yorks Village Vanguard. He will also pay tribute to Bud Powell at New Yorks Iridium on September 20.