James Chance and the Contortions

The Profile

James Chance is an American saxophonist and vocalist who led the Contortions and was a central figure in New York's late-1970s No Wave scene, combining elements of jazz, funk, punk and noise.

Leader of the Contortions; associated with No Wave and a fusion of jazz, funk and punk. Performs saxophone and vocals. Sometimes performed under the name James White.

Two DeBaser reviews praise James Chance's role in New York's No Wave, noting his blend of jazz, punk and funk. Buy The Contortions is described as essential and danceable despite extreme dissonance. The Flesh Is Weak is seen as an attempt to recapture that intensity with mixed success. Overall, Chance is presented as a unique and underrated figure.