Nicole Mitchell, the renowned flutist and composer, teams up with vocalist Lisa E. Harris to present "EarthSeed," a captivating exploration of sound and narrative released on June 22, 2020, under FPE Records. This avant-garde jazz album is not just a collection of tracks but a profound homage to the visionary sci-fi author Octavia Butler, infused with an astute Afrofuturist sensibility.
"EarthSeed" is a live concert recording that spans a full hour, featuring a septet of talented musicians who navigate through complex compositions with ease. The album's ten tracks, including standouts like "Whispering Flame" and "Phallus and Chalice," showcase Mitchell's innovative approach to jazz, blending free jazz elements with avant-garde experimentation. The collaboration with Harris adds a vocal dimension that is both haunting and evocative, enhancing the album's narrative depth.
The album depicts a world grappling with greed and the struggle for survival, symbolized by the lifeforce embodied in seeds. This thematic richness is mirrored in the music, which can seduce, challenge, and unnerve within moments. Mitchell's compositional prowess and Harris's vocal artistry create a soundscape that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically rich.
"EarthSeed" is a testament to Mitchell's ongoing exploration of social and environmental themes through her music. It's an album that demands attention and rewards repeated listening, offering a unique blend of jazz, narrative, and activism. Whether you're a longtime fan of Nicole Mitchell or new to her work, "EarthSeed" is a compelling addition to any music collection.
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