San Diego underground composer/pianist Joe Garrison surfaces on Dec. 1, at the new Dizzy's (4275 Mission Bay Dr.), to showcase music from a new album with a large ensemble of local musicians he calls Night People.

Garrison has been at this awhile: "I've been composing since the mid-sixties," he said. "I write music because it's my nature. I don't do it for a [tangible] reason, you know, it's just what I do. I've tried many times to quit, but it never made sense."

I've checked out his music via an advance EP, and its got a heavy '60's modal vibe to it--intricate charts and killing solos with an emphasis on large-group textures.

"I am used to large groups," Garrison said. "Fortunately, these wonderful musicians are interested enough in new music that they will participate for very little compensation."

Appearing with Garrison are trumpeters Gilbert Castellanos and Derek Cannon, trombonist Kevin Esposito, saxophonists Kamau Kenyatta and Ben Schachter, bassist Ben Wanicur and drummer Fernando Gomez.

"I am really indebted to Gilbert Castellanos and Kamau Kenyatta for their help and support," says Garrison. "A year ago I had been out of sight for five years. Thanks to them, I'm able to get back. And the support from players like Rob Thorsen, Derek, Kevin, Fernando and the staff at UCSD! Without players like them, with their skill and commitment, I could have never done this project."

I asked Garrison about the genesis of the band name: "The Ruse Collective commissioned me to write two concert suites," he said. "The second one was called "Night People & Other Survivors." I just liked the name, and it stuck ever since."

Photo courtesy Joe Garrison