"I think only in America could a person of Leo Smith's talent not be recognized.
I think Leo Smith is a genius, and whenever the thrust of his work becomes
known, then he will get the respect he deserves. I only hope it will happen
while he's on this planet. Leo and I basically grew up together in the AACM.
We would study scores, we were always writing, composing, day-dreaming about
new projects. I have never known a time when Leo Smith was not developing
something...The man is a genius."
-- Anthony Braxton
"George Lewis, one of Eli's Chosen Few, Basic and Braxton, pewmate of Al
"the Great Gatemouth" Grey, and the latest proselyte of Windy City ensembleering
to invade Gotham. Coleman Hawkins once said everybody from out-of-town sounds
funny when they get to New York. George came here to bicentailgate and, ever
since, New York has sounded funny. He eats city blocks and has musical digestion.
The philosopher, laughing, peels off one mute and chooses another. Oozes another.
From Above, the shadow of Shiva's right foot rocks, begins the cosmic dance."
-David Himmelstein
"Just as we reach the curry house, a woman stumbles out and vomits copiously
into the gutter in front of us. I freeze in horror, but Gerry is unperturbed.
'Hmm,' he drawls, heading for the door, 'looks like my kind of place."
- Graham Lock
"I've been particularly inspired....by Ani Difranco. I think she's absolutely
incredible.... I think she's a fabulous musician, singer, songwriter, guitarist
and artist. I'm particularly moved by the content of her work."
- Gerry Hemingway