Either/Orchestra

Biography

Either/Orchestra is a pioneering jazz ensemble founded in 1985 by saxophonist and composer Russ Gershon in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Conceived initially as a rehearsal band to explore Gershon’s compositions, the group quickly developed a unique identity, blending the structure and lushness of a big band with the agility and improvisational spirit of a small combo. Their early performances at local venues like the Cambridge Public Library and Boston’s Scullers Jazz Club set the stage for a career marked by adventurous touring and a commitment to both jazz tradition and innovation.

The band’s sound draws inspiration from jazz legends such as Duke Ellington, Gil Evans, Charles Mingus, and Sun Ra, but also incorporates elements from rock, Latin, and avant-garde music, reflecting Gershon’s background in Boston’s rock scene. Either/Orchestra has been notable for its willingness to tour like indie rock bands, playing non-traditional jazz venues across North America and fostering a sense of camaraderie among its members. In the mid-1990s, the group began a deep exploration of Ethiopian music, collaborating with Ethiojazz pioneers like Mulatu Astatke and Getachew Mekurya, and performing with renowned vocalists Mahmoud Ahmed and Alemayehu Eshete. This cross-cultural work has become a defining aspect of their legacy, earning them international acclaim and a Grammy nomination for their album 'Calculus of Pleasure.'

Over nearly four decades, Either/Orchestra has served as a launching pad for numerous prominent jazz musicians, with almost 50 members passing through its ranks. The ensemble’s innovative approach, genre-blending repertoire, and global collaborations have secured its place as one of the most influential and enduring modern jazz big bands.

Fun Facts

• Either/Orchestra was originally formed as a rehearsal band with no intention of touring or recording, but quickly evolved into a major performing and recording ensemble.
• The group is known for touring in vans and playing non-jazz venues, emulating both early big bands and indie rock groups to foster a unique band camaraderie.
• Their deep dive into Ethiopian music was sparked by a compilation album, leading to historic collaborations with legendary Ethiojazz musicians and performances in Ethiopia.
• Nearly 50 musicians have been part of Either/Orchestra, with many alumni going on to become acclaimed bandleaders and sidemen in the jazz world.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Duke Ellington - Major stylistic influence on the band's orchestrations and arrangements (General influence on repertoire and approach) [1985–present]
• Gil Evans - Influence on the band's harmonic palette and orchestration (General influence on sound) [1985–present]
• Charles Mingus - Inspiration for compositional complexity and group interplay (General influence on style) [1985–present]
• Sun Ra - Influence on avant-garde and experimental elements (General influence on experimental works) [1985–present]

Key Collaborators

• Mulatu Astatke - Collaborated on Ethiopian jazz projects and live performances (Ethiopian music collaborations, live concerts) [2000s–2010s]
• Getachew Mekurya - Collaborated on Ethiojazz performances (Live performances, Ethiopian tours) [2000s]
• Mahmoud Ahmed - Performed together at major festivals and concerts (Lincoln Center Out of Doors (2008), Ethiopian Music Festival (2004)) [2004–2010]
• Alemayehu Eshete - Collaborated for live performances in the US and Ethiopia (Lincoln Center Out of Doors (2008)) [2004–2010]
• John Medeski - Band member, later co-founded Medeski Martin & Wood (Either/Orchestra albums and tours (late 1980s–early 1990s)) [1988–1990]
• Matt Wilson - Drummer and band member (Either/Orchestra albums and tours) [1990s]
• Tom Halter - Founding trumpeter and long-term band member (All major Either/Orchestra projects) [1985–present]

Artists Influenced

• Miguel Zenón - Former member who developed as a bandleader and acclaimed saxophonist (Either/Orchestra recordings and performances) [2000s]
• Jaleel Shaw - Former member who became a prominent jazz saxophonist (Either/Orchestra recordings and performances) [2000s]
• Andrew D’Angelo - Former member, later a noted saxophonist and composer (Either/Orchestra recordings and performances) [1990s]
• John Medeski - Cited Either/Orchestra's touring model as inspiration for Medeski Martin & Wood's approach (Medeski Martin & Wood's grassroots touring) [1990s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Harvey's Entrance (Afro-Cubism)
2. Temptation (The Half-Life of Desire)
3. Amlak abét abét - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
4. Muziqawi silt - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
5. Altchalkoum - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
6. Soul tezeta - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
7. Breaktime for Dougo (More Beautiful Than Death)
8. Feqer aydèlem wèy - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
9. Yèzèmèd yèbada - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))
10. Eyèyè - Live (Ethiopiques, Vol. 20 (Live in Addis))

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia