We learned over the past weekend of the passing of Malachi Favors. As most of you know, Malachi was the bassist for seminal band The Art Ensemble of Chicago, for which he anchored the rhythm section for over 35 years. A profoundly modest man, Malachi rarely drew attention to himself. Despite this, he was nontheless among the most influential bassists in helping to establish that instrument's role in "avant-garde" jazz.
We have had the pleasure of working with Malachi over the past few years, first with Wadada Leo Smith's Golden Quartet on "The Year of the Elephant," and more recently, with The Art Ensemble of Chicago on "The Meeting" and their upcoming release "Sirius Calling." Sirius Calling was named by Malachi, who apparently knew that he was dying for some time - and Sirius (the brightest star in the heavens) was calling to him from beyond. We at Pi are honored to have worked with Malachi. His legacy and influence will continue to resonate on.
Seth Rosner and Yulun Wang Pi Recordings
Perfect Sound Forever online music magazine http://www.perfectsoundforever.com