from the album Silenced II
577records.bandcamp.com/album/silenced-ii-views-from-the-auction-block

Forward Festival & 577 Records are proud to announce a new album on the Beat Series:

Donald Sturge Anthony McKenzie II
Silenced II - Views from the Auction Block

Silenced is a project by Donald Sturge Anthony McKenzie II playing improvised/one take duos with legendary musicians. This second volume features duets with Elliott Sharp, Vernon Reid, and Bill Laswell.
The album is out now as a limited edition vinyl and digital download on Forward Festival & 577 Records www.577records.com
“Ramarley Graham is the first tune of Silenced II, and it features Elliott Sharp. It is one of those performances that, when I listen back, I think someone else is playing drums. That’s how great it sounds, to me. It sounds so good; it just has to be someone else playing drums. The Holy Spirit must have been in the room that day. Elliott and I have been playing for many many years. He’s iconic. He's an idol of mine and was Cecil Taylor’s favorite guitar player. One take.
Bill Laswell and I created a soundscape that is moody and guttural at the same time. I am in shock and awe that he chooses to consistently perform with me as well as use me as a hired drummer on his productions. One take.
I always want to sound like a piano, when I play solos. Hence my expansive drum set with an array of tones. My kit gives me this. It’s on full display in Akai Gurley.
Elektra Jagger McKenzie, the last composition on the LP, features my frequent music collaborator, Vernon Reid. It’s an homage to my daughter” - Donald Sturge Anthony McKenzie II
"In Silenced Donald Sturge Anthony McKenzie II has reconnected contemporary improvisational music to one of the most crucial & controversial issues facing us today - the misuse of lethal force by those sworn to Serve & Protect ALL of us. I am proud to be amongst the artists participating in this remarkable project”. - Vernon Reid
“Improvising in duo with master drummer Don McKenzie is a heart-to-heart conversation at hypersonic speeds and simultaneously accessing fantastic theory, earthy humor, and the news of the day.  As a player, always unpredictable and always gripping”. - Elliott Sharp

If you haven’t done so already, check out the first volume of Silenced, featuring duos with Nels Cline, Vernon Reid, Melvin Gibbs, Arnold Lee, Dave Hofstra and CX KidtroniK.
Donald Sturge Anthony McKenzie II is an American musician and composer from New York City. His career has led him to tour and record with an impressive list of music legends including Vernon Reid, James Blood Ulmer, Bill Laswell, Marc Ribot, P.Diddy, Gravediggaz, Pharoahe Monch, Mr. Complex, Martin Luther, Cody Chesnutt, and The Persuaders.