"Destroy All Nels Cline" is a groundbreaking album by American guitarist Nels Cline, released on April 24, 2001, under the Atavistic label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album is a captivating exploration of free jazz, avant-garde, and jazz-rock genres. Nels Cline's unique approach to guitar playing is showcased throughout the nine tracks, each offering a distinct blend of experimental rock and avant-garde jazz styles.
The album opens with "Spider Wisdom," a track that immediately immerses the listener in Cline's intricate and dynamic guitar work. "Chi Cacoan" and "Ringing Hand" continue to build on this foundation, with Cline's playing ranging from delicate and melodic to chaotic and noisy. "Talk of Chocolate Bed" and "After Armenia" introduce elements of jazz-rock, while "Progression" and the multi-part "As in Life [5 Moments]" delve deeper into avant-garde jazz territories. The album concludes with "Friends of Snowman" and "Martyr," both of which showcase Cline's ability to blend genres seamlessly.
"Destroy All Nels Cline" is not just an album but a testament to Nels Cline's innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music. It offers a rich and diverse listening experience, making it a standout release in the world of experimental and avant-garde music. Whether you're a fan of jazz, rock, or simply great guitar playing, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.