Crispell, Marilyn: Live at Mills College, 1995

Marilyn Crispell's captivating album, Live at Mills College, 1995, is a masterful showcase of her unique talent, blending the boundaries of free jazz and traditional jazz. Released on 1 April 2011 by Music and Arts Programs of America, this 59-minute recording is a testament to Crispell's innovative spirit and technical prowess.

The album's tracklist is a thoughtful compilation of pieces, including 'Fragments', 'Nowhere - Reflections', and 'As Our Tongues Lap Up the Burning Air - Song for Abdullah - Apart', which demonstrate Crispell's ability to craft complex, expressive compositions. The inclusion of 'Night Moves - The Night Has 1,000 Eyes - Omberg, Drums' adds a dynamic layer to the album, highlighting her skill in fusing disparate elements into a cohesive whole.

Throughout the recording, Marilyn Crispell's passion for experimentation and improvisation shines through, resulting in a truly immersive listening experience. With its rich textures and intricate melodies, Live at Mills College, 1995, is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a glimpse into the creative genius of Marilyn Crispell.

Marilyn Crispell is a pioneering force in the world of free jazz, renowned for her powerful and distinctive piano playing. Born in Philadelphia in 1947, Crispell's journey into jazz began in her late 20s when she discovered John Coltrane's music, setting her on a path to become one of the genre's most original and sought-after pianists. Her style, influenced by the likes of Coltrane and Cecil Taylor, is uniquely her own, characterized by a masterful use of space and an adventurous spirit that continually pushes boundaries.

Crispell's career is marked by her extensive work as a soloist and bandleader, as well as her collaborations with legendary figures such as saxophonist Anthony Braxton, with whom she performed in the 1980s and '90s. Her compositions and performances are known for their evocative and disciplined style, often described as akin to monitoring an active volcano, with a dynamic range that challenges and captivates. Crispell's contributions to the jazz world have been recognized with the prestigious NEA Jazz Master award, cementing her status as a true innovator in the realm of avant-garde jazz.