The album is more than just a musical memory box; it is a reflection on life, capturing little moments and experiences in sketches of sound, rather than following a traditional beginning-to-end narrative structure. By taking the known and familiar and making it the start of something new.
Promise turns 20 this year. I only have a few photos from that session — taken on a standalone digital camera, back when people owned those. But I remember every minute of it. The nerves. The battered red door at 117 Ditmas Avenue. Engineer Max Bolleman behind the glass in the control room. Just Vicente, Kendrick, and me, along with Max and his assistant. Gerry Teekens, to whom I’m grateful for giving me the opportunity to record for Criss Cross, wasn’t even there that day. It was just us, the music, and the moment.
At some point we needed more minutes, so we played Coltrane’s Moment’s Notice — unrehearsed, one take, and it made the record. My musical journey continues. Still promising. 🎹
#dannygrissett
#promise
@vicentearcher@kadscott@crisscrossjazzrecords
Back in 2010, I joined Amos Lee’s band—and to my surprise, the legendary James Gadson was on drums. Getting to share the stage with him night after night was something truly special.
We talked about everything—Kansas City, free jazz, the move to LA, Little Richard, recordings, family… life. He couldn’t quite pronounce “Vicente”, so he called me “Vente,” like the Starbucks size 😂
Rest in peace to a one-of-a-kind drummer, producer, vocalist and coolest around!!!. Honored to have known you.
I can’t wait to share the stage with these master musicians! Gerald Clayton, Vicente Archer, Billy Drummond, and I will play on the hallowed ground of the Village Vanguard Jan.20-25. I couldn’t be more grateful, come and hear us!
What a beautiful night at @townhallnyc — a celebration of Haruki Murakami in words and music. Grateful to @thejasonmoran for curating such a remarkable ensemble. And spending two days with the great @reggieworkman was the best!!!
