4/9/2000
Bass Encounters is the latest release by the Skipper and crew. The Skipper is bassist Henry Franklin, one of the most productive of the Los Angeles area jazz musicians. CD released on the Resurgent label begions the Franklin's family contribution to jazz in the new millenium. Henry's father is the late Sammy Franklin, one of L.A.'s finest trumpet players over three quarters of the past century.

Henry's career began on Los Angeles circa late 50's. While still in high school he played with Roy Ayers Latin Jazz Quintet featuring Roy, Wm. Henderson and Carl Burnett. He easily transitioned into Latin Jazz Funk and got his first major league start with Willie Bobo, who also played funky afro jazz (Afro Jazz Funky). He lived and played in Big Apple w/ Bobo for nine months, during which he had the opportunity to play with Archie Schepp.

He later gigged with Hugh Masakela (Grazin' in the Grass).

The Skipper and crew are establishing an ensemble sound that embraces all the influences of his past musical experiences. The sound is grounded in the phrases and patterns of modern African orchestral music, and the offspring of traditional African Afro Cuban. This approach to rhythm is enhanced and broadened by a combination of reed and brass that has the Bebop harmonic approach and the post Bebop phrasing and melodic ideas of the advocates of cool. The result can be described as "melodies to pop your fingers to" and as you listen you may find that more than your fingers have started to move.

... notes by Pete Muriuki Mhunze

Franklin's group is superb and listener friendly"
-Zan Stewart