Dive into the avant-garde sounds of Albert Mangelsdorff's "Birds of Underground," a captivating journey through the realms of free jazz, avant-garde, and krautrock. Originally released in 1973 and reissued in 2016, this album showcases the innovative spirit of one of Germany's most influential jazz musicians. With a career marked by experimentation and boundary-pushing, Mangelsdorff's mastery of the trombone is on full display, particularly his groundbreaking use of multiphonics.
"Birds of Underground" is a concise yet powerful collection, spanning just 43 minutes across four tracks. The album opens with "Wobbling Notes and Fluted Crackle," setting the stage for the sonic explorations to come. "Grive Musicienne" and "Xenobiosis" continue the journey, each track a testament to Mangelsdorff's unique approach to composition and performance. The title track, "Birds of Underground," brings the album to a close, leaving a lasting impression with its intricate layers and improvisational brilliance.
This reissue, released on the esteemed MPS label, offers a fresh opportunity to experience Mangelsdorff's pioneering work. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious explorer of avant-garde music, "Birds of Underground" promises an engaging and thought-provoking listening experience.