The Aram Shelton Quartet features Chicago-based musicians Keefe Jackson, Anton Hatwich and Marc Riordan. Related to the Fast Citizens (Delmark), of which Shelton, Jackson and Hatwich are all members, this quartet displays a musical range on their debut album "These Times" that encompasses free swing, creative improvisation, space & patience, and fiery energy.

In the quartet, Shelton plays equal amounts of alto saxophone & clarinet, approaching each distinctly while displaying both the large and subtle differences of the instruments. Jackson contributes on tenor saxophone with a full sound and unique approach to the utilization of extended techniques. Hatwich's bass playing grounds the music and drives it in a compelling way, while Riordan's drums serve as backbone to the rhythmic aspects and a frame to the open sections.

★★★★ - Downbeat, January 2011

"These are important, no-bullshit artists who recall Prez's rule that a solo should tell a story" - Point of Departure

"This is a woodwind pairing that one hopes will maintain the staying power of Tchicai and Shepp" - Ni Kantu

"It is easy to admire the audacity of Aram Shelton's quartet." - AAJ

"Shelton and Jackson share a rapport that makes sessions like this one sound somewhat effortless even though the collaborative energy spent to get there was obviously deep and rewarding" - Master of a Small House