The Zawinul Syndicate’s engagements at The Continental Cafe in Melbourne has been extended through October 20. Likewise, the Syndicate will hold forth at The Basement in Sydney for the entire week, October 23-27.

The Zawinul Italian Fan Site brings to my attention this week’s release of the new CD by former Syndicate bass player Matthew Garrison—his first as a leader. It features Syndicate alumnus Arto Tuncboyacian, as well as current Syndicate member Amit Chaterjee, and the ultra cool keyboard player Scott Kinsey, synthesist for the new millinium. Details can be found at Garrison’s web site.

This week’s Zawinul Syndicate concerts in Los Angeles were canceled as Joe became ill due to an allergic reaction he suffered from a spider bite. We’re told this will not affect the Australian tour, due to start in mid-October.