Thirsty Ear's Blue Series is one of the pre-eminent modern jazz labels. Utilizing maverick jazz pianist Matthew Shipp as their curator, the label's Blue Series thrives on confounding listener expectations. Collaborations between free jazz musicians such as William Parker and Tim Berne with electronic musicians like DJ Spooky and Spring Heel Jack are par for the course at Thirsty Ear. Often compared to the classic Blue Note label, Thirsty Ear's Blue Series is blazing a new path for jazz in the 21st Century.

When and how did Thirsty Ear start?

Thirsty Ear started out as a communications company in 1979. From there it expanded into a radio show and record label.

Describe a typical day at the Thirsty Ear office.

A day in the life consists of fielding requests for record reviews, artist interviews, production issues and what to have for lunch.

What's the best and worst aspect of your job?

The best aspect is being able to dress comfortably and listen to music for nine hours a day. The worst aspect is strange people on the phone and when the landlord turns off the AC at 3:30pm.

Does radio matter to Thirsty Ear?

Absolutely, Matthew Shipp's last solo record, Equilibrium, debuted at # 1 on CMJ jazz. Believe it or not, there is a small corner of the world in which radio is not dominated by Justin and Christina.

Does the internet matter to Thirsty Ear?

Sure, it all helps towards the goal of getting the word out there. Everyone is down with the internet these days

How do you know you want to work with an artist?

Usually, the concept of an album is discussed first. Peter Gordon (label head) comes up with the vision and then its up to the musicians who we choose to pull it off. So putting DJ Spooky with the best free jazz musicians in the world (Matthew Shipp, William Parker) seemed like a good idea -- and it was! If there is a pairing of musicians that seems totally off the wall, then it's perfect for us.

What are three records (other than your own releases) that fans of your label would love?

Medeski Martin and Wood, Uninvisible
John Coltrane, A Love Supreme
Miles Davis, Bitches Brew

What can we expect from you in the next year?

Lots -- records by the rapper/producer El-P, DJ Spooky with Dave Lombardo (drummer for SLAYER), Mike Ladd, Spring Heel Jack, Big Satan and Craig Taborn.

August 19, 2003

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