CYGER & BUTTERWORTH

PLAID PANTS

Outrageous8 Records

Ron Cyger, saxophones/flute/composer; Brent Butterworth, double bass/guitar/ukulele/ percussion/composer; Dimitris Terpizis & Leo Oliveira, drums; Larry Salzma, bongos.

Ron Cyger has been busy on the Los Angeles jazz scene for years and Brent Butterworth has also performed with several L.A. music groups and in the Seattle area.  Their album, “Plaid Pants” documents a true compositional partnership, combining two distinct writing voices, each contributing four original tunes.  This is a unique duo production, with a little help from their friends.

The two talented musicians invite three percussionists to join them.  The first tune composed by Ron Cyger is titled “Pequeña Diabla” that translates to “Little Devil.”  On this Latin arrangement, Brent Butterworth is playing percussion and also adding bass, rhythm guitar and ukulele.  Cyger’s smooth saxophone delivers the beautiful melody and the party begins.

Their next tune is based in the blues with a shuffle-feel pushing the melody forward. This tune is also penned by Cyger. It has a totally different direction than the first track. Butterworth takes a long, impressive bass solo.  This time Dimitris Terpizis adds drum licks to the arrangement. His rhythmic perspective is there, but the main thrust of this tune is presented by the duo headliners themselves.

An original song called “Clunky” was composed by Butterworth.  It has a totally different approach than the first two songs. This time Cyger picks up his flute. He reminds me just a little bit of the Herbie Mann days in jazz. The sensitivity between these two multi-instrumentalists is obvious.  They merge together on this project, a tight consolidation of emotional and musical connection. This album defines them not only as jazz musicians but as collaborators presenting a compositional unit.  Their interplay and sound design is always spotlighting the duo aspect of this music.

The title tune, “Plaid Pants” reminds me of New Orleans, a spicy, musical gumbo. This song production features tempo and mood changes, written into a celebratory arrangement.

On ”Bye Bye Blue Whale,” written by Butterworth who shows off his guitar skills, and also accompanies himself on bass.  I wonder, in-person how this duo would present their unique sound?  Do they pre-record certain instrumentations?  About midway through the tune, Cyger enters on his soulful saxophone and explores the melody.

Their album ends with a moderate tempo shuffle tune called “LP” and features Larry Salzman on bongos.  The melody is infectious and just might have you whistling along.

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