New Orleans’ Basher, captained by adventurous composer and strikingly talented saxophonist and clarinettist Byron Asher, is one of the most electrifying free jazz party bands out there. They’ve released May Day earlier this year, a thrilling, buoyant and infectious dance floor-ready album with an unabashedly punk spirit. Besides Basher, Byron has also been showcasing his dexterity and versatility in Skrontch Music, his experimental large ensemble, Flaxan, a multi-timbral horn quartet, and various other projects. His musical universe is chock-full with gems that will cast a spell on you and make you dance and smile. We just had to ask him to curate a mix and we’re pumped to share the superb selection of tunes he put together for us.

“The tracks are songs that have influenced my work over the years in New Orleans, with Basher as well as with other band projects, as well as my compositional interests and my commitment to expansive improvisation.” - Byron Asher