Dave Douglas Launches Label

Trumpeter and composer Dave Douglas (pictured) has announced the launch of his new record label, Greenleaf Music. Douglas will serve as artistic director for the label and his longtime friend Michael Friedman will manage the label, which will be distributed by Koch Records in the U.S.

Greenleaf Music’s debut release will come on January 25, 2005 in the form of a new album from NOMAD, one of Douglas’ ensembles. The album is entitled Mountain Passages. Douglas plans to follow that album with three more releases in 2005 and four in 2006. There are plans to record Chicago guitar-pioneer Jeff Parker and the Los Angeles based group KneeBody, led by trumpeter/drummer Shane Endsley, as well as a live duo recording of Douglas with Dutch piano master Misha Mengelberg.

“I was looking for a way to continue producing recordings my own way, in my own time. I decided that the way to find that creative freedom was to start my own business,” Douglas said in a press release. “I’ve made 21 albums in my career, and while I’ve had great experiences at big and small labels, it is time for me to take even more responsibility for my recordings.”

Friedman, who is leaving Premonition Records for Greenleaf, said, “Greenleaf Music is a once in a lifetime opportunity to work hand in hand with someone I consider a modern master.”

Greenleaf will celebrate its formation and first release in New York at The Village Vanguard, 178 7th Ave. South with weeklong performances by Douglas and NOMAD beginning February 1, 2005.

For more information visit DaveDouglas.com.

Originally Published December 2, 2004