4 Walls of Freedom

With it's new release, Dear Life, 4 Walls of Freedom is making it known that there is a vital new band on the international music scene. The group's first self titled CD for the Sirocco Music label appeared on several of 2003's "top ten" lists, including those of Down Beat and Jazzwise Magazine. About the group, The Observer (London) stated, "For unremitting brilliance it would be difficult to match this quartet. Everyone is at the top of his game." Reviewing a live performance, Jazzwise Magazine offered, "4 Walls of Freedom promised a mouth-watering line-up, but does it fly? OH YES! This is what we want - utter virtuosity. So very, very brilliant." The four individuals comprising 4 Walls of Freedom represent the state-of-the-art on their respective instruments, and navigate a galaxy of music by way of their experience and influences.

Joe Locke considers 4 Walls of Freedom to be the fruition of his musical journey thus far. He feels extremely fortunate to have some of the greatest musicians in the world as his band mates.

 
with Bob Berg and Henry Hey (2003)

Tenor saxophonist Tommy Smith is arguably the most prolific jazz musician of his generation. An internationally recognized soloist, composer and band leader, Smith is also the driving force of The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra. His musical collaborations include performances and recordings with Chick Corea, John Scofield, Kenny Barron, Jack DeJohnette, Tommy Flanagan, Joe Lovano, John Taylor and Kenny Wheeler and many others. Besides his extensive catalogue of compositions for jazz groups of various sizes, he has composed for and performed with The Orchestra of St John's Square and the Paragon Ensemble

Gary Novak's playing is a study in power, precision, finesse and good taste. The son of the great jazz pianist, Larry Novak, Gary logged more gigging time behind the drums before he was out of high school than many musicians experience in a lifetime. He has been a member of some of the most notable bands in contemporary jazz, including those of Chick Corea, Bob Berg, George Benson and Alan Holdsworth. For five years he toured the world as a member of Alanis Morissette's band. He is considered by many to be one of the most exciting drummers playing today.

Ed Howard is one of the most sought-after acoustic bassists on the scene today. Highly respected by his peers for his great sound and incredible feel, he has graced the groups of Roy Haynes, Gary Thomas, Victor Lewis, Herbie Hancock, Shirley Horn, Wayne Shorter, David Kikoski and Steve Wilson, to name a few. His playing embodies the best of the jazz tradition, but is also informed by the contributions of such artists as Peter Gabriel, Yes, Genesis and Gentle Giant.

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