John Scofield, Steve Swallow, Bill Stewart - Swallow Tales

Guitarist John Scofield celebrates the music of his friend and mentor Steve Swallow in an outgoing and spirited recording, made in a day in New York in March 2019 - old school style as Scofield says, while acknowledging that more than forty years of preparation led up to it.

John was a 20-year-old student at Berklee when he first met and played with the bassist, and they have continued ever since. I love these songs, says Scofield of the selection of Swallow compositions explored here � a broad range including classics such as Hullo Bolinas, Eiderdown, Falling Grace and Radio, as well as lesser-known works. The rapport between Scofield and Swallow is evident in every moment. John: Sometimes when we play it's like one big guitar, the bass part and my part together.

Behind the drum kit, Bill Stewart, a close associate of Scofield's since the early 90s, is alert to all the implications of the interaction. What Bill does is more than 'playing the drums,' Scofield says. He's a melodic voice in the music, while also swinging really hard.

Personnel: John Scofield (guitar), Steve Swallow (bass), Bill Stewart (drums)