Dive into the avant-garde jazz landscape with Dave Douglas' "Five," a captivating exploration released in 1996 on the Italian label Soul Note. This album, recorded in the summer of 1995 at East Side Sound in NYC, is a testament to Douglas' innovative spirit and his unique approach to jazz. "Five" is the fifth studio album by the trumpeter and the second to feature his string group, following "Parallel Worlds" from 1993.
The album boasts an impressive lineup, with Dave Douglas on trumpet, Mark Feldman on violin, Erik Friedlander on cello, Drew Gress on bass, and Michael Sarin on drums. This ensemble delivers a powerful and intricate soundscape that spans the full hour of the album's duration. The tracklist includes ten compositions, each offering a unique perspective on the free jazz genre, with standout pieces like "Invasive Procedure," "Mirrors," and "The Inflated Tear."
"Five" is a bold statement in the world of jazz, pushing the boundaries of traditional genres and inviting listeners to experience the raw, unfiltered energy of avant-garde jazz. The album comes with an 8-page booklet featuring notes in English, providing deeper insights into the creative process behind the music. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Five" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases Dave Douglas' mastery of the trumpet and his ability to lead a band through complex and challenging compositions.