Scott Henderson Discussion

[hipfreejazz]

Hello Scott,

It is understandable that collaborating with band members scattered globally is a challenge and that a US based trio is more practical. However, it is evident that you were looking forward to working with Deron Johnson and Gergo Borlai. Also, you mentioned that you enjoyed playing with Gary Novak.

If I’m not mistaken, Johnson and Novak reside in LA area. Prior to you announcing the dissolution of TT, Johnson was already selected for the new incarnation of TT. Is Novak too busy / in demand to allow him to form a quartet with you and Johnson (I’m sure you could find a talented LA based bassist)?

As far as Borlai, he continues to partner with Willis. Would you be open to forming a periodically working trio with Willis and Borlai that would tour Europe or other regions (since you and Willis have an extensive catalog of compositions, you wouldn’t necessarily need to write new music)?

If the above scenarios are not feasible, are there other projects that you may consider?

Look forward to your next trio record and future endeavors.

Thanks,

Pete

[Scott Henderson]

The problem with continuing Tribal Tech was partially due to the locations of the band members, but to be honest it's more about quartets in this economy. The difference financially with an extra guy is HUGE, because it's not just the pay, it's the extra flight, hotel room, etc. If promoters would offer more, problem solved, but I haven't seen that happen.

I loved playing with Deron, and I'm sure I'll have the opportunity to play some gigs with him and Novak in town, where I don't expect to make any money.

As far as playing trio with Willis and Gergo, I'm sure that would be a blast, and we might actually have enough music for a tour if we avoid the highly keyboard driven tunes. The thing is, I'm already in two trios, mine and HBC. Even though HBC doesn't have a bandleader, most promoters view it as a guitar trio, and doing a third guitar trio would probably loose work for the other two.

I think the only way I'm going to end up doing anything different is to be a sideman again. In my dreams, Wayne Shorter would call me to replace his keyboard player - I won't hold my breath.