Michael Formanek Elusion Quartet

Michael Formanek Elusion Quartet features a powerhouse assemblage of heavy hitters all on one stage: Tony Malaby  (sax), Kris Davis (piano), Ches Smith (drums/vibes). Together they play the soul-stirring and poignant original compositions of band leader Michael Formanek (double bass).  Elusion shrugs off traditional time and tempo constraints to present a more “chamber-music like” feel that exploits the tensions of different pairings of instruments. The ensemble revels in free improvisation to create sharper contrasts, greater fluidity and a full spectrum of emotions. Through driving bass lines and scrappy ensemble work, Formanek seeks to more directly connect to the feelings of both the listener and the band.