ALI CONTINUUM Band

A Tribute to Rashied Ali

Under the Musical Direction of Lawrence Clark

ABOUT ALI CONTINUuM

Ali Continuum is a jazz ensemble founded and directed by tenor saxophonist and composer Lawrence Clark, dedicated to celebrating the music, spirit, and enduring legacy of legendary drummer Rashied Ali.

Clark spent approximately ten years performing and touring with Rashied Ali, remaining a member of his ensemble until Ali's passing in 2009. This experience profoundly shaped his musical development and approach to creative improvisation.

Established with the blessing of Rashied Ali's family, Ali Continuum brings together accomplished musicians to explore Ali's compositions alongside original works by Clark. The project honors the innovative spirit of Rashied's music while establishing its own creative identity, carrying that inspiration forward for new generations of listeners.

THE ENSEMBLE

LAWRENCE CLARK
Tenor Saxophone | Musical Director

New York-based saxophonist, composer, and bandleader Lawrence Clark performed and toured with legendary drummer Rashied Ali for approximately ten years, remaining with his ensemble until Ali's passing in 2009.

A dedicated improviser and composer, Clark leads the Lawrence Clark Quintet and serves as the founder and musical director of Ali Continuum, combining his own artistic vision with the creative spirit of Rashied Ali's music.

JOSH EVANS
Trumpet

Hartford, Connecticut-born trumpeter, composer, and arranger Josh Evans studied under legendary alto saxophonist Jackie McLean and has performed with some of jazz's most celebrated musicians, including Benny Golson, Cedar Walton, Oliver Lake, and Christian McBride.

Evans was a member of Rashied Ali's Quintet from 2007 until Ali's passing in 2009, touring internationally and appearing on the recording Live in Europe. Reuniting with fellow Rashied Ali bandmate Lawrence Clark in Ali Continuum, Evans brings his extensive experience, distinctive musical voice, and deep connection to Ali's creative legacy.

DAVIS WHITFIELD
Piano

Acclaimed pianist and composer Davis Whitfield comes from a distinguished musical family. He is the son of internationally renowned jazz guitarist Mark Whitfield and the brother of celebrated drummer Mark Whitfield Jr. A graduate of Berklee College of Music on a prestigious Presidential Scholarship, Davis has established his own voice on the New York jazz scene. He has toured internationally, performed at major jazz festivals, and appeared regularly at renowned venues including Mezzrow in New York City. Alongside his father and brother, he recorded the critically acclaimed album Grace with the Whitfield Family Band. Known for his harmonic sophistication, creativity, and adventurous improvisational approach, Whitfield brings a dynamic musical presence to Ali Continuum.

ERIC WHEELER
Bass

Acclaimed bassist and composer Eric Wheeler has established himself as a prominent presence on the international jazz scene. A Washington, D.C. native and graduate of Howard University, Wheeler has performed and recorded with legendary artists including Pharoah Sanders, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Benny Golson, Cyrus Chestnut, and Russell Malone. His extensive career includes collaborations with Theo Croker, Christian Sands, and Jazzmeia Horn, as well as appearances at major festivals including Newport, Umbria Jazz, and Jazz in Marciac. His recordings include Grammy-nominated projects with Theo Croker and Jazzmeia Horn. Known for his exceptional technique, versatility, and creative musicianship, Wheeler brings a powerful rhythmic and harmonic foundation to Ali Continuum.

ELÉ SALIF HOWELL
Drums

Acclaimed drummer, percussionist, and composer Elé Salif Howell is one of the exciting young voices in contemporary jazz. A San Francisco native and son of renowned saxophonist Richard Howell, he developed his musical foundation at an early age and later studied at New York University, where he established a close mentorship with legendary drummer Lenny White. Howell has toured and performed internationally with celebrated artists including Ravi Coltrane, Gary Bartz, and Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott). His collaborations also include Stanley Clarke, John Scofield, Brandee Younger, and David Gilmore. Known for his dynamic rhythmic approach, versatility, and adventurous improvisation, Howell brings youthful energy and creative depth to Ali Continuum.