Rob Clearfield Fields

“I tend to write emotionally. That is to say, when I reach in to the abstract space of musical possibilities, the tiny bit I can capture, I tend to let these transient melodies/rhythms and subsequent harmonies, increasingly familiar somehow, guide me through the most natural dynamic and flow of energy from event to event. These fragile moments, subtle and monumental, occupy long form song structures in Sifting Stars. This music and lyrics is concerned with fantasy and redemption, and I exploited every opportunity to coax the most lush and expressive motion. While this collection of music is perhaps stylistically furthest away from my jazz informed roots than in previous work, with this classical instrumentation and atmosphere, brimming with romantic gestures, and it’s mostly through-composed nature, I feel that much of the harmonic and rhythmic palettes still reflects my relationship with jazz and new music through a certain rhythmic aesthetic, emotional intent, and vibe.

Fareed Haque is a modern guitar virtuoso. Steeped in classical and Jazz traditions, his unique command of the guitar and different musical styles inspire his musical ventures with tradition and fearless innovation. His 2013 album Out Of Nowhere features drummer Billy Hart and George Mraz and continues to defy convention. Fareed was voted "Best World Music Guitarist" by Guitar Player Magazine, and has toured with the Zawinul Syndicate, Sting, and Paquito D'Rivera.