Crispell: Woodstock Concert, 1995

Album Description

Marilyn Crispell's captivating album, Crispell: Woodstock Concert, 1995, is a masterful showcase of her solo piano prowess. Recorded live at the Kleinert/James Arts Center in Woodstock, New York, in April 1995, this album is a testament to Crispell's innovative and expressive approach to free jazz.

The six-track album, featuring pieces such as 'Await' and 'In Lingering Air', demonstrates Crispell's remarkable ability to craft intricate, emotive soundscapes that transport the listener to a world of depth and complexity. With a duration of 57 minutes, the album is a poignant and introspective journey, with each piece flowing seamlessly into the next.

Originally released in 1996, Crispell: Woodstock Concert, 1995 has been re-released by Music and Arts Programs of America, allowing a new generation of music enthusiasts to experience the beauty and nuance of Crispell's playing. This album is a must-listen for fans of jazz and improvisational music, offering a unique glimpse into the creative genius of Marilyn Crispell. With its release on 1 April 2011, this album has become an essential part of any jazz collection, and its impact continues to be felt to this day.

April 1, 2011

2011 Music and Arts Programs of America

About 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.