October 5–12, 2000

six pick

Jamal/Shipp/Pope

Loyal patrons and attentive observers of the Sweetnighter Productions series will recall that Philadelphia natives Khan Jamal and Odean Pope (recent winner of a City Paper Music Award for best composer) played here together just a few weeks ago; the provocative blend of Jamal’s shape-shifting vibraphonics and Pope’s searching tenor saxophone aren’t easily forgotten. What distinguishes this gig, so soon after the last one, is the presence of Matthew Shipp. The pianist is a masterful musical conversationalist, capable of transforming a situation without even a hint of autocracy. Certainly there will be some push-and-pull during this ménage à trois, but the predominant vibe will be a creature unto itself. Deeply intuitive interplay, a rolling sense of dynamics, and an uncertain quietude are some of the qualities certain to surface during this thoughtful and important performance.

—Nate Chinen

Wed., Oct. 11, 9:30 p.m. Plays & Players Theatre Club, 1714 Delancey St.