Cornetist Kirk Knuffke from New York blurs the boundaries between mainstream jazz and avant-garde in his trio with double bassist Mark Helias and drummer Bill Goodwin.

Cornetist Kirk Knuffke is among the rare performers who are fluent in both traditional jazz and contemporary improvised music. This is evident in his new trio, which features two musicians he admires: the experimental bassist Mark Helias and straight-ahead drummer Bill Goodwin, both of whom are top performers in their field. Mark Helias played with among others Anthony Braxton and Cecil Taylor. Bill Goodwin was the main drummer in Phil Woods’ Orchestra and has collaborated with such players as Bill Evans, Tony Bennett and Dexter Gordon.

Kirk Knuffke has been acclaimed as a Rising Star in the most recent Downbeat Critics Poll. His mentors include Ornette Coleman and Ron Miles. Previously he played at the Bimhuis with Ideal Bread, the band dedicated to the music of Steve Lacy. In collaboration with pianist Jesse Stacken he recorded music by among others Monk, Mingus en Misha Mengelberg. His most recent trio album features his original compositions.

Kirk Knuffke - cornet Mark Helias - bas