Recorded live at the Chamber Music Hall of the Berliner Philharmonie, "Conversations With Tony Oxley" captures a historic meeting between legendary pianist Cecil Taylor and renowned drummer Tony Oxley. Released posthumously in 2018, just days after Taylor's passing, this album is a testament to the pianist's enduring legacy and innovative spirit. Spanning a generous 78 minutes, the album presents four extended improvisations that showcase the unique dialogue between Taylor's explosive, percussive piano style and Oxley's responsive, dynamic drumming.
Taylor, known for his groundbreaking contributions to free jazz, pushes the boundaries of the genre with his intricate, polyrhythmic playing. Oxley, meanwhile, complements and challenges Taylor with his subtle, yet powerful, drumming. The interplay between the two musicians is nothing short of mesmerizing, as they weave together a tapestry of sound that is both complex and captivating.
The album is a powerful exploration of improvisation and collaboration, with each "Conversation" offering a unique perspective on the musicians' shared language. From the opening notes of "Berlin Conversation 1" to the final bars of "Berlin Conversation 4," the album is a thrilling journey through the minds of two jazz masters. Fans of free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop will find plenty to love in this extraordinary live recording. The album was released by Jazzwerkstatt and features four tracks.
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