Charles Bobo Shaw

by Ron Wynn
An outstanding free drummer whos also able and willing to get funky at any time, Charles Bobo Shaws playing is rhythmically diverse and alternately intense or relaxed, frenetic or steady. Shaw studied drums with Ben Thigpen, and briefly doubled on trombone and bass. He was one of the founders of the St. Louis-based Black Artists Group in the 60s. Shaw and other BAG members went to Europe later in the 60s, and Shaw played free jazz in Paris for a year with Anthony Braxton, Steve Lacy, Frank Wright, Alan Silva, and Michel Portal. He returned to St. Louis in the 70s, and recorded there with Oliver Lake in 1971. He led the Human Arts Ensemble in the mid-70s, recording with Lester and Joseph Bowie, Julius Hemphill, Lake, and others. Shaw worked and did sessions with Lester Bowie, Frank Lowe, Hamiett Bluiett, and Lake in the mid-60s. After touring with the Human Arts Ensemble in Europe during the late 70s, Shaw recorded with Billy Bang in the mid-80s. Hes recorded as a leader for Moers and Black Saint, among others. Shaw has one session available on CD.