Two of the most powerful and inventive acoustic bass players High Zero has ever witnessed. Thomas Helton plays at the Red Room with Michael Formanek. Both men inhabit the worlds of free improvisation and jazz. There’s no telling what journey they will follow, this evening.

Thomas Helton will also be playing with Kevin Patton in their group pH. This performance involves dynamic, live sample-manipulation of the double bass.

Thomas Helton hails from Houston. He is a composer and bassist of renown and has performed in groups such as The Core Trio and individuals like Tim Hagans, Milt Jackson, Ernie Watts, William Parker, and Weasel Walter. www.thomashelton.org

Michael Formanek is well known in these parts for leading ensembles both outside and within the conservatory. He’s played for years with a list of jazz masters such as Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan, Fred Hersch and Freddie Hubbard. www.michaelformanek.com

Kevin Patton is a software designer/improviser/composer who is a recent arrival in the District of Columbia. His group pH with Thomas Helton involves Mr. Patton live sampling the bass and manipulating the sound. For a sample, visit this linkwww.kevinpatton.lajunkielovegun.com

Event location:

The Red Room at Normals Books and Records 425 E. 31st Street Baltimore, MD 21218

The Red Room is a volunteer-run space in Baltimore dedicated to mind-expanding experimental culture, headquartered at Normals Books and Records.