Record Reviews

ANTHONY BRAXTON (+ DUKE ELLINGTON) ~ CONCEPT OF FREEDOM HATOLOGY 614 (Barcode: 752156061427) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2003 Released: 2005 This album presents the compositions by two of America´s most iconic Jazz composers: Anthony BraxtonFind albums by this artist and Duke EllingtonFind albums by this artist. Although seemingly totally separated and different, the works of these two composers are reflections of their respective eras. Ellington symbolizes the sophistication of the Jazz Art Form at its peak; at least as far as Jazz composition is concerned, and marks the turning point of Jazz, when its musical qualities finally reached the level of complexity and sophistication of the Classical Music heritage. Braxton symbolizes the next giant step in the development of Jazz, when it finally freed itself from any preconceptions and limitations, concentrating on its intrinsic quality, i.e. improvisation. Side by side, these compositions can certainly compliment each other, especially when performed by an excellent quartet of European musicians, two of which have recorded Braxton´s music before under his supervision: Swiss trombonist Roland DahindenFind albums by this artist and pianist Hildegard KleebFind albums by this artist with Greek violinist Dimitris PolisoidisFind albums by this artist and Austrian electronic musician Robert HöldrichFind albums by this artist. The performances are virtuosic and the music, although difficult and demanding, offers besides the obvious challenges also many hidden treasures associated with contemporary Improvised Music. For serious listeners only!

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