Marilyn Crispell's captivating album, Contrasts, is a masterful exploration of the jazz genre, blending free jazz elements with traditional jazz sensibilities. Released on 1 April 2011 through Music and Arts Programs of America, this 1 hour and 9 minute musical journey showcases Crispell's exceptional skill as a pianist and arranger.
The album's tracklist is a testament to Crispell's versatility, featuring an array of original compositions and thoughtful arrangements of beloved jazz standards. From the intricate nuances of 'Gesture Without Plot' to the poignant beauty of 'Ruthie's Song' and 'Time Remembered', each piece demonstrates Crispell's profound understanding of the jazz idiom.
With tracks like 'Dancing' and 'Starshine', Crispell's playing is characterised by its expressive depth and technical brilliance, while 'Cousin Judi' and 'Little Chiquita' showcase her ability to craft memorable, singable melodies. The album's arrangements of 'Turn Out the Stars' and 'The Night has a Thousand Eyes' are equally impressive, highlighting Crispell's talent for reimagining classic jazz pieces in innovative and exciting ways.
Throughout Contrasts, Marilyn Crispell's passion for jazz shines brightly, resulting in an album that is both a tribute to the genre's rich heritage and a bold statement of her own unique artistic vision. Fans of free jazz and traditional jazz alike will find much to appreciate in this outstanding collection of music, which is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.
Vinylscout