Mary Halvorson's "Code Girl," released on March 30, 2018, under SG3 Records, is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds that solidifies her status as a pioneering composer and guitarist. This double album, recorded in December 2016 at Firehouse 12, spans an impressive 13 tracks and 90 minutes, offering a rich and immersive experience.
The album introduces the Code Girl quintet, featuring the distinctive vocals of Amirtha Kidambi, the trumpet mastery of Ambrose Akinmusire, the bass expertise of Michael Formanek, and the rhythmic prowess of Tomas Fujiwara on drums. Halvorson's compositions are intricate and thought-provoking, seamlessly blending post-bop elements with avant-garde experimentation. Tracks like "My Mind I Find in Time" and "Possibility of Lightning" showcase the band's dynamic range, while "Storm Cloud" and "Thunderhead" delve into more intense, atmospheric territories.
"Code Girl" is a testament to Halvorson's innovative approach to jazz, pushing boundaries and redefining musical conventions. The album's provocative nature and concentrated moments of brilliance make it a standout release of 2018, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers to her work. With its rich instrumentation and bold compositions, "Code Girl" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of contemporary jazz.
Vinylscout