The Modern Prometheus Jazz Co.
"The artistic exploration is an ever-changing project"
by Bobby Seuss, The Mail Tribune June 13, 2008Tom Stamper's Modern Prometheus Jazz Company has existed, in one form or another, since its founder moved to the Rogue Valley from the Bay Area in 1987.
More a musical concept than a band, Modern Prometheus has drawn influence and contribution over the years from the jazz musicians in the Rogue Valley.
"There are a lot of great musicians in the valley to choose from, and we're always trying different configurations," says Stamper. "Each performer brings something different to the table."
The lineup for the group's upcoming performance at 9 p.m. Thursday, June 19, at Alex's Restaurant, 35 N. Main St., Ashland, will be Adam Harris, Daniel Grijalva and Mike Vannice on saxophones, Jeff Addicott and Bruce McKern on bass guitars and Stamper on drums.
With an ever-changing cast of characters and a focus on instrumental experimentation, the project has become a local symbol of artistic exploration.
"Everything is in constant flux," Stamper explains. "Different musicians come in and out of the mix, so there is a lot of room for art to happen."
Three-part saxophone harmonies, rotating bassists and multiple drum sets are among the features listeners can look forward to at the group's performances.
"We're really trying to push the jazz envelope," Stamper says. "Without a chordal instrument in the mix, we have a really harmonically spacious canvas to paint on."
Stylistically, Modern Prometheus pays homage to the compositions of jazz legends such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Thelonius Monk, with an emphasis on testing sonic and artistic boundaries.
"We play jazz standards in a fresh, improvisational way that leaves a lot of freedom of expression for every player," says Stamper. "Every concert is different according to the moods and emotions of each musician."
Modern Prometheus not only performs for the audience, but with the audience. According to Stamper, the willingness of listeners to become a part of the artistic celebration is the mark of a truly successful performance.
"I've seen audiences bring musicians to a whole new level. If someone is digging a solo, the player will pick up on it, and before you know it, everyone is sharing the music."
The fact that each Modern Prometheus performance is a unique, one-time experience for the players and audience alike perfectly represents the nature of jazz music itself, according to Stamper.
"Not only is jazz really the only art form that is indigenous to America, it's also the only art form that disappears right before the audience's eyes. Once it happens, it's gone."
The Modern Prometheus Jazz Company seeks to bring this elusive American art form to life in a way that unifies and energizes listeners.
"We're not just throwing notes out there," Stamper says. "We're trying to create and communicate in a way that heightens the spirit, for the sole purpose of making life better."
For Stamper, the choice to focus his life on music has always been a pretty obvious one.
"It is absolutely the only thing that makes any sense to me at all," he explains with a laugh. "When you connect through music, there is nothing else like it. And I think people can feel that."
© & ® 2009 TingleFinger.com Recordings. All Rights Reserved.