Considered one of the most versatile saxophonists of his generation, the bandleader, composer and arranger Greg Ward launched his group Rogue Parade with the release of his album “Stomping Off From Greenwood” (2019). A quintet of heavyweight creative Chicago musicians, Rogue Parade features guitarists Matt Gold and Dave Miller, bassist Matt Ulery and drummer Quin Kirchner. “Stomping Off From Greenwood” follows his critically acclaimed Greenleaf debut “Touch My Beloved’s Thought” (2016), which focused on the music of Charles Mingus.
Ward earned wide acclaim as a sideman with artists like Prefuse 73, Lupe Fiasco, Tortoise, William Parker, Andrew D’Angelo and Mike Reed. Following a 2016 performance at the Whistler, as part of Relax Attack Jazz Series, Rogue Parade was approached by the Chicago club to present a monthlong residency. The ensemble honed its sound by following this residency with an extensive Midwest tour, before heading into the studio to capture its collective energy on record. This nine-track collection explores Rogue Parade’s unique two guitar instrumentation and ultimately blends the sonic worlds of acoustic and electronic.
In the lead up to the debut of “Stomping Off From Greenwood,” three singles from the album were released: “Metropolis,” “The Contender” and “Excerpt 1.” Inspired by the time Ward spent in Chicago and New York, “Metropolis” serves as an ode to the many life-changing experiences the saxophonist has encountered in both of these vibrant cities. During his time in Chicago, Ward worked with the International Contemporary Ensemble, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s chamber music series, and was commissioned by the Jazz Institute of Chicago for a new composition, which was performed at the Chicago Jazz Festival in 2009.
After moving to New York, the Illinois native received a commission/residency from the popular NYC Jazz Gallery. These two metropolitan cities have continued to inform Ward’s creativity. Ward said of this recording, "I hope you can feel the energy that I experience on a daily basis living in a place where so many different lives and perspectives are intertwined.” This track features a duet by guitarists Dave Miller and Matt Gold and leads to a trio with Ward on alto saxophone.
The second single is titled “The Contender.” Although Ward has always made time in his routine for exercise, it was only recently that he delved into boxing. Featuring a solo from both Ward and Matt Gold, “The Contender” translates some of the saxophonist’s boxing moves into music.
The third single from the album, “Excerpt 1,” represents an important ritual included in the composer’s daily routine. Ward understands the importance of developing his compositional talents and so makes a conscious effort to compose something, however short or long, almost every day. “Usually, I’m just working on thematic development of some sort with hopes of coming out with even a small fragment that’s worth turning into a new piece. Sometimes, a short thought presents itself. “Excerpt 1” is one of these,” Ward said.
With the support of receiving a grant from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events in Chicago, Ward is excited to present Rogue Parade on “Stomping Off From Greenwood,” the ensemble’s debut studio recording.
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