Ensō : John Tchicai Lunar Quartet Live in Ferrara

Album Description

Dive into the exhilarating world of avant-garde jazz with John Tchicai's "Ensō: John Tchicai Lunar Quartet Live in Ferrara," a live album that captures the legendary saxophonist and his Italian-based quartet at their finest. Released on March 28, 2023, via Tonos Records, this album is a testament to Tchicai's enduring legacy and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz.

The album features six electrifying tracks, each a unique blend of free jazz and avant-garde elements that showcase the quartet's exceptional musicianship. From the hopeful "Anthem of Hope" to the chaotic yet ordered "A Chaos With Some Kind of Order," each piece is a journey into the heart of experimental jazz. The standout track, "Ensō - St. John," is a mesmerizing exploration of sound and rhythm that highlights Tchicai's mastery of the saxophone.

The ensemble, featuring pianist Greg Burk, delivers a performance that is both raw and refined, capturing the energy and spontaneity of a live show. The album's duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the quartet's unique sound, making it a standout addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

"Ensō: John Tchicai Lunar Quartet Live in Ferrara" is not just an album; it's an experience. It's a chance to witness the genius of John Tchicai and his quartet in action, pushing the boundaries of what jazz can be. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tchicai's work or a newcomer to the world of avant-garde jazz, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

March 28, 2023

2023 Tonos Records

About John Tchicai

John Tchicai, born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1936, was a pioneering figure in the world of free jazz and avant-garde music. With a Congolese father and a Danish mother, Tchicai's diverse heritage infused his music with a unique rhythmic and spiritual depth. He began his musical journey on the violin, later switching to clarinet and finally settling on the alto saxophone, which became his signature instrument.

In the early 1960s, Tchicai's career took off when he moved to New York City, becoming a central figure in the city's burgeoning free jazz scene. He collaborated with legendary musicians such as John Coltrane, Archie Shepp, and Albert Ayler, contributing to seminal works like Coltrane's "Ascension" and Ayler's "New York Eye and Ear Control." Tchicai's innovative approach to composition and performance earned him recognition as a father figure in the European improvised music world.

Throughout his career, Tchicai's music was celebrated for its compelling sense of rhythm, drama, and humor, as well as its spiritual and healing qualities. He was not just a saxophonist but also a composer and teacher, dedicated to advancing the cause of avant-garde jazz. Tchicai's legacy endures through his extensive discography and the influence he had on generations of musicians.