Carnival Celestial

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde realm of jazz with Alexander Hawkins' latest masterpiece, "Carnival Celestial." Released on April 21, 2023, via Intakt Records, this 56-minute exploration is a testament to Hawkins' prowess as a pianist and composer, accompanied by the stellar rhythm section of Neil Charles on bass and Stephen Davis on drums. With a tracklist that includes standout pieces like "Rapture," "Puzzle Canon," and the titular "Carnival Celestial," this album is a thrilling journey through the boundaries of free jazz and avant-garde music.

"Carnival Celestial" is not just an album; it's a bold statement in the world of contemporary jazz. Hawkins' compositions are intricate and thought-provoking, pushing the limits of what a piano trio can achieve. The interplay between Hawkins, Charles, and Davis is nothing short of electrifying, with each track offering a unique blend of improvisation and structured composition. From the frenetic energy of "Fuga, the Fast One" to the celestial harmonies of "Canon Celestial," this album is a sonic adventure that demands repeated listens.

The album's themes are as diverse as its musical styles, touching on everything from the beauty of nature to the complexities of modern society. Tracks like "Unlimited Growth Increases the Divide" and "If Nature Were a Bank, They Would Have Saved It Already" showcase Hawkins' ability to weave social commentary into his music, adding depth and relevance to his compositions. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Carnival Celestial" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the best of what Alexander Hawkins has to offer.

April 21, 2023

2023 Jonas Schoder

2023 Intakt Records

About Alexander Hawkins

Alexander Hawkins is a pioneering British jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader, celebrated for his innovative and unique sound that defies conventional categorization. Born in Oxford in 1981, Hawkins has carved out a distinctive niche in the modern creative music landscape, blending a deep fascination with composition and structure with a love for open forms and improvisation. His musical journey is marked by a profound affinity for the music of Ethiopia, honed through collaborations with legendary figures like Mulatu Astatke.

Hawkins leads several notable ensembles, including the Alexander Hawkins Ensemble, the Convergence Quartet, and the Hammond organ-based Decoy, each showcasing his versatility and creative prowess. His collaborations extend beyond his own groups, with notable partnerships including Sofia Jernberg, with whom he released the acclaimed album "Musho" in 2024. Hawkins' music has been described as "unlike anything else in modern creative music," with a sound that is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.

Throughout his career, Hawkins has received numerous awards and commissions, solidifying his status as one of the most innovative musicians of his generation. His performances and recordings are not just musical experiences but journeys into the depths of sound and structure, making him a standout figure in the contemporary jazz scene.