Reptiles in the Sky
By Peter Danstrup (former employee)
In 2010 bass player and associate professor Peter Danstrup released Reptiles in the Sky as part of his R&D work at Rhythmic Music Conservatory. The 11 tracks contain 9 original compositions and arrangements by Peter Danstrup
and two collective improvisations. The line up consists of 5 brass instruments and
a trio of saxophone, bass and drums from the Scandinavian and British music scene. The concept is uncommon and we have to go
back to Miles Davis’ ’Birth of the Cool’ (recorded 1950) to find a somewhat similar
instrumentation. The music is characteristic by its lack of chord instruments, tight
arrangements and open, free and easy soloing. It refers both back in music history, with influences from Blind Lemon Jefferson, Duke Ellington and traditional
gospel, as well as towards a modern, colourful and freely improvised expression.
The English composer and arranger Django Bates has produced the album and left
his mark on the arrangements. Danish saxophone player John Tchicai is the main
soloist and unleashes his personal, expressive and unpredictable playing.
The recording was awarded by The Danish Art Council in 2010.
About 'Reptiles in the Sky'