Marc Ribot Quartet, “Hurry Red Telephone”

Marc Ribot’s Spiritual Unity worked together for several years in the early 00s, continuing their Albert Ayler-tinged trajectory as Grimes Taylor Ribot Trio after the death of trumpet player Roy Campbell Jr, and until Mr. Grimes’ failing health forced an end to their legendary performances in 2018. “Those gigs with Henry were the best music I’ve ever played on... or heard…” said Mr. Ribot of their last run of Trio gigs. Ribot and drummer Chad Taylor had been looking for a format to continue this work ever since. 

With “Hurry Red Telephone” (the title is a quote from the Richard Siken poem, “Several Tremendous"), they’ve found it. 

Ribot comments:
“when I first heard Sebastian Steinberg’s bass playing (w/Joe Morris in the 1980’s), I thought: “THAT’s who I’m looking for: a gifted improviser, deep groove player, and totally original. We worked together in my band Shrek and other formats from the early 1990’s till Sebastian moved to LA, and I’m thrilled to resume our collaboration. Ava Mendoza is the perfect person to round out this quartet— great soloist, sensitive ensemble player:  a fearless guitarist/ improvisor who knows how to rock the house. 

We’re ready to take it to the next level.“