(Cover art for "X Years" courtesy Hotel X)
Now out on Seattle’s Ladies Choice Records, X Years contains a decade’s worth of recordings by Richmond-based world music and jazz collective Hotel X.
“We’re always attempting to expose those historical influences [jazz, rock, funk and blues], while playing in the moment and embracing the infinite, futuristic possibilities of improvisation,” says founding member and alto saxophonist Tim Harding. “Music for the mind, booty and spirit!”
Currently composed of eight members, Hotel X has included dozens of musicians at one time or another since its founding in 1992. The ensemble was recognized with this magazine's Theresa Pollak Prize for Excellence in the Arts in 2005 — selectors noted its "irresistibly joyful African-based sound."
The group's full-length CD is available from iTunes, CD Baby, Plan 9 Records and at performances. You can catch them live on Friday, Nov. 20, at Crossroads Coffee & Ice Cream at 8 p.m. and on Dec. 3 at Stir Crazy Café at 7:30 p.m.
