Released through VOF Recordings, the album showcases Freeman’s signature vibraphone style alongside an outstanding ensemble featuring Guido Gonzalez on trumpet and flugelhorn, Jim Gailloreto on tenor sax and bass clarinet, Ruben Rodriguez on electric bass, Roberto Quintero on percussion, and Joel Mateo on drums.
Inspired by the rich traditions of Latin jazz pioneers while maintaining a modern sound, Circles In A Yellow Room delivers energetic grooves, sophisticated arrangements, and colorful percussion throughout its ten original compositions. Much of the material was originally composed during 2019 and later completed after the pandemic period.
Mike Freeman performs not only vibraphone, but also marimba, kalimba, tambourine, triangle, sleigh bells, hand percussion, and additional textures that give the album its unique sonic atmosphere.
Track Listing:
• Valentine
• Funky Chai Cha
• Circles
• El Cuarto Amarillo
• Back Slap
• Midwinter Day
• Marble Race Rematch
• River Watch
• Wellspring
• The Trek
Personnel:
• Mike Freeman — vibraphone, marimba, percussion, composer
• Guido Gonzalez — trumpet, flugelhorn
• Jim Gailloreto — tenor saxophone, bass clarinet
• Ruben Rodriguez — electric bass
• Roberto Quintero — congas, bongos, guiro, maracas, percussion
• Joel Mateo — drums
With its warm grooves, melodic improvisations, and Afro-Latin energy, Circles In A Yellow Room stands as one of Mike Freeman’s most engaging and rhythmically rich projects to date.