The Brunswick Green Bootlegs - Vol. 1 is the second live release from the Australian psychedelic jazz collective I Hold the Lion's Paw. The album features three full-length improvised sets recorded in 2017 during IHTLP's continuing residency at the iconic Melbourne bar, The Brunswick Green.

Each set features a different lineup of internationally acclaimed musicians who have assembled to dissect, abstract and (re)bind composed material into single-take long-form improvisations and electro-acoustic remixes. Expect to hear anything from harmonious free-floating melodies, electro-acoustic noise, slowly shifting tectonic plates of sound, grungy grooves, afro-beat and free jazz.

IHTLP’s leader and composer Reuben Lewis says “I have always wanted to develop a band that could traverse any of the sound worlds I inhabit, and to go one further, bring these worlds together in a way that enables a constantly evolving dialogue through improvisation. I Hold the Lion's Paw is the conduit for this concept and 'Vol. 1' captures us at our most raw, fearless and groovy moments in our musical home, The Brunswick Green."

I hold the Lion’s Paw
Whenever I dance.

I know the ecstasy of the falcon’s wings
When they make love against the sky,

And the sun and moon
Sometimes argue over
Who will tuck me in at night.

If you think I am having more fun
Than anyone on this planet
You are absolutely correct.
- Hafez