Gonzalo, Chris, Eric, Larry

FIRST MEETING LIVE AT DIZZY’S CLUB

Passion Records

Gonzalo Rubalcaba, piano; Chris Potter, tenor saxophone; Larry Grenadier, bass; Eric Harland, drums.

When I hear GRAMMY winner, Gonzalo Rubalcaba at the piano, I am always stunned into attentive silence.  There is something compelling about his approach and his emotional mastery of the keys.  His rubato introduction to the Chick Corea tune “500 Miles High” is elegant and it captivates me. He is soon joined by another GRAMMY winner, tenor saxophonist, Chris Potter.  They lock grooves, like old friends hugging after a long absence.  Their blend is improvised but perfect.

This group of master musicians was assembled by Jazz at Lincoln Center’s VP of Programming, Jason Olaine.  Billed as “First Meeting” (that is also the album title) these four jazz titans played together for the first time at Dizzy’s Club.

“Our communication was easy and fluid.  Nobody requested that we play a piece the way it was recorded years before or go in a particular direction.  What you hear on the album is how we played it together in the here and now,” Gonzalo Rubalcaba explained.

This is a double disc set.  On disc one, you will hear “500 Miles High,” “State of the Union” and the drummer’s tune (Eric Harland) “Eminence.”

On Disc 2, You will enjoy their rendition of Dizzy’s “Con Alma” with striking solos by Gonzalo Rubalcaba and bassist Larry Grenadier.

Also, “Oba” was composed by Chris Potter. He opens the tune on his tenor saxophone, and when Eric Harland’s drums join the party, they establish a wonderful union. Finally, “Santo Canto,” composed by Rubalcaba, closes out this concert.  All in all, it’s a performance meant to be remembered!

Potter said, “The goal was to make some serious music together, where the jazz language is now.  Gonzalo, Larry and Eric are amazing musicians at the top of their game.  It was almost daunting to come to work, like, this is at such a high level. I don’t want to mess it up. It was a very focused, intense conversation throughout, with everyone listening deeply. It’s like a high-wire act.  Everything is perfectly balanced.”

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Order the New Book From Making a Scene

Breaking Chains – Navigating the Decentralized Music Industry

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.

More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry’s middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist’s journey. Whether you’re an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music.

Get your Limited Edition Signed and Numbered (Only 50 copies Available)  Free Shipping Included