Since the 1980s, pianist Matthew Shipp has been the Platonic ideal of an original improviser. With his unique and electrifying style, Shipp is now recognized as a living legend of the avant-garde.

A New York downtown-scene fixture, Shipp has combined forces over the years with the likes of AACM cofounder Roscoe Mitchell, D.C.-born punk legend Henry Rollins, and iconic bassist William Parker. But his most consistent vehicle has been his trio.

CapitalBop is honored to be presenting the Matthew Shipp Trio on Friday, Sep. 27, at New York University in DC, featuring his longtime partners Newman Taylor Baker on drums and Michael Bisio on bass. This special concert will also feature the Janelle Gill Trio.

Shipp was a regular visitor to the nation’s capital for years, thanks to Transparent Productions’ series at Bohemian Caverns. We’re proud to pick up the baton and welcome Shipp back to D.C.

After the show, stick around to hear an onstage Q&A between Shipp and Dr. Thomas Stanley, the artist, author and activist known as Bushmeat Sound System.