Catalog

The playing is energetically raw at times and glacially mournful at others with the odd sonority of the koto providing a unique counterpoint to the more-or-less standard Free-Jazz blowing. In the final analysis, the exotic timbral elements and the varied compositions gave this set a leg up on similar groups plying these same waters. - David Kane, Cadence Magazine

..this unit boasts great compositions in equally convincing interpretations. They foster Cooke’s vision, complementing his saxophone, clarinet and flute work with a sonic pallet that is adventurous without succumbing to superficiality. - Marc Medwin, Dusted Reviews

The San Francisco-based CKW Trio is an ambitious bunch who mix a variety of influences, both musical and cultural, and choose an unusual instrumental mix to make music that is very much in their own image. - Jay Collins, One Final Note

Try this; it's a humorous and accomplished journey into the not-too distant present. Music that, as the title says, simply 'is.' - Kenneth Egbert, Jazz Now

Together, the threesome interprets original themes, which take the listener on a journey through faraway places. Exotic and intellectually challenging, the trio's program gives their audience much to consider. - Jim Santella, Cadence Magazine

Michael Cooke definitely has a lot to say and the multifarious talents to make you listen. If this CD doesn't get your attention, you are probably deaf. - Ted Kane, jazzreview.com

The San Francisco Bay Area is home to a few virtuoso multi-instrumentalists like Michael Cooke, whose dedication and perseverance in the midst of tremendous competition rise substantially above more conventional offerings...this is an excellent session. - James D. Armstrong, Jr., Jazz Now

this is some pretty creative stuff and deserves a listen. - Ray Redmond, Jazz USA

This is Jazz for the serious listener. Jazz for the reflective soul, and that goes for the up-tempo pieces, too. What is constantly a revelation is the sheer number of really great, and generally little known musicians who are capable of such a high- quality performance. We sometimes hear the established names of Jazz producing music less accomplished than what we have here. - Lawrence Brazier, Jazz Now

Searching features the Cooke Quartet in an intense meeting of Latin, Indian, Asian, Classical Music, and Jazz.- Jim Santella, Cadence Magazine

High energy, emotional, lively, and enjoyable is what this CD "Searching" is all about! - Lee Prosser, jazzreview.com