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  “…a sturdily approachable new jazz quartet…this is a band that could easily keep going for while without running out of options.” – Nate Chinen, New York Times

Riverside puts a contemporary stamp on small group improvisation while evoking the dynamic ensembles led by clarinetist Jimmy Giuffre.

The quartet, co-led by Dave Douglas and clarinetist/tenor saxophonist Chet Doxas, has a rhythm section comprised of Steve Swallow, bass (a former member of Giuffre’s celebrated trio) and Jim Doxas, drums. Riverside blends a love for improvised music, bluegrass, sacred hymns and Appalachian music to create an aesthetic rooted in Americana and jazz.

The quartet aims to show their appreciation and respect for the late reedsman and composer, but rather than being just a tribute band and simply performing Giuffre’s repertoire, Douglas and Doxas have composed new music that highlights their inspiration. The piano-less configuration allows for harmonic freedom and gives the group the ability to emphasize the original compositions as well.

Douglas’ and Doxas’ mutual interest in Jimmy Giuffre arose as coincidence. Douglas had previously worked on charts for a Giuffre-inspired project that was never recorded. After meeting at the Banff Centre when Douglas was Director, Doxas invited him to play, and they found their shared interest to be a perfect match.

“The name Riverside represents the image of the music we both brought to the table.” says Doxas. Douglas adds, “The name references nature—like standing in the mud down by the river—that relaxed and organic quality in folk music and improvisation.”

Chet Doxas endorses D’Addario woodwinds.