Spiritual Unity

Marc Ribot

Marc Ribot

Marc Ribot's resume reads like a who's who of the musical elite and accomplished; Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, John Lurie and the Lounge Lizards, Marianne Faithfull, John Zorn, Joe Henry and Medeski, Martin and Wood. Hailing from New Jersey Ribot didn't have to travel far in order to get to New York and quickly immerse himself in the downtown scene. The breadth of influences he brought with him is easily seen with even a quick glance of the albums and bands he has been a part of. From punk, to film soundtracks, to cuban, to jazz, to rock they have all been effected by his unique and totally personal sound. His tone is immediately recognizable and his touch both edgy and graceful. Any recording he has added to has benefitted from it. His approach to the guitar and music has helped to reassert feeling and intention over prowess and technique, but has done so without sacrificing any of former.

As a leader, his recordings with The Rootless Cosmopolitans, Shrek and Los Cubanos Postizos offer glimpses into his personality and musical interests. A collection of very personal recordings for Tzadik show an intimate and private world of sound not fully explored with previous bands. Marc is that rare musician who is better understood once his work as a leader is heard alongside his work with others. His ability to compliment and add to the music of others becomes even more impressive when balanced against the very personal sound of his own music. His accompaniment talents are immediately evident as his voice comes through the music without detracting from its own sound and personality. While many musicians today are hired for what they bring to the music it can be said that Marc is hired for what he brings out of the music. With his experiences and history this possibility seems to be limitless.