Recorded at Brooklyn Recording 2015 on the birthday of Chuck D and Nana Vasconcelos
John endorses Zildjian cymbals and crotales.
This work was made possible by the generous support of the Doris Duke Performing Artists Awards Program.
All compositions by John Hollenbeck, Grand Blvd. Music (ASCAP / GEMA), 2016.
"Super Petite" is an inventive and tightly focused CD by The Claudia Quintet, released by the renowned independent label Cuneiform. Known for its sophisticated blend of jazz, contemporary composition, and subtle minimalism, this album presents concise, finely crafted pieces that showcase the ensemble's extraordinary sense of rhythm, texture, and ensemble interaction. Each track feels like a miniature world: complex yet accessible, playful yet deeply structured. The careful balance of composed material and improvisation reveals a band that listens closely, leaving space for detail and nuance while still delivering a clear, compelling musical arc. "Super Petite" is ideal for listeners who appreciate forward-thinking jazz that refuses to fit into simple categories, rewarding both concentrated listening and repeated plays.
The Claudia Quintet is a critically acclaimed ensemble at the forefront of modern jazz and genre-defying chamber music. Built around the visionary leadership of composer-drummer John Hollenbeck, the group has earned praise for its intricate compositions, unusual instrumentation, and the seamless integration of jazz, contemporary classical, and experimental influences. Over the years, The Claudia Quintet has become a benchmark for innovative ensemble work, regularly featured in the international jazz press and on festival stages for its ability to combine intellectual depth with emotional resonance. Their albums are often cited as essential listening for anyone interested in the evolution of modern jazz into more expansive, borderless soundscapes.
Cuneiform, the label behind "Super Petite", is a long-standing independent company internationally respected for its adventurous catalog. Specializing in progressive jazz, avant-rock, experimental, and boundary-pushing music, Cuneiform has built a reputation for supporting artists who take risks and redefine genres. Rather than chasing the mainstream, the label curates a roster of musicians known for originality and artistic integrity, often helping to bring groundbreaking projects and under-represented voices to a wider audience. Fans seeking music off the beaten path frequently turn to Cuneiform releases as a seal of quality, knowing they will encounter challenging, imaginative, and meticulously produced work.
Modern
32.380
- AcidJazz/DanceJazz 106- Avantgarde/Free 981- Bebop 109- Bossa Nova 341- Cool 75- Hard Bop 155- Jazz Rock/Fusion 748- Latin Jazz 1.000- Other Modern Jazz 27.399- PopJazz/SmoothJazz 795- World-&Ethno-Ja. 448
