Photo: Maria Marquez
Lisa Mezzacappa & Nightshade
Audio player
Nightshade is my electro-acoustic chamber ensemble, performing my original compositions, some great music by our clarinetist Cory Wright, and unusual arrangements (Zappa, Messiaen) inspired by the work of contemporary visual artists and filmmakers. The group's musical world encompasses evocative melodies, abstract sonic landscapes and playful rhythmic juxtapositions, with influences ranging from Eric Dolphy to Olivier Messiaen to Blonde Redhead. Nightshade made its debut at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in summer 2009, as part of the "New Frequencies" performance series, and has performed at the Red Poppy Art House, Meridian Gallery, Old First Concerts, Trinity Chapel, and as part of San Francisco Chamber Music Day.
Cory Wright, clarinets
John Finkbeiner, electric guitar
Tim Perkis, electronics
Kjell Nordeson, vibraphone and percussion
Lisa Mezzacappa, acoustic bass
Our debut CD was released on Leo Records in summer 2011:
Track Listing:
1. Cosmic Rift (prelude)
2. Delphinus
3. The Eric Dolphy Memorial BBQ (Zappa, courtesy Munchkin Music)
4. Regard de L'étoile (Messiaen)
5. Ballet (Wright)
6. Alvamel's Dream
7. Cosmic Rift
CD Reviews:
Best New Release of 2011: Honorable Mention, New York City Jazz Record
Troy Collins (All About Jazz)
François Couture (Monsieur Délire)
Tomajazz/Pachi Tapiz (Buscando Un Nombre)
Rigobert Dittmann (Bad Alchemy)
Craig Matsumoto (Avant-Jazz Radio)
Chris Parker (London Jazz)
Free Jazz Alchemist blog
Nightshade playing live to films by Alfonso Alvarez, June 2010:
Dream #1
Dream #2