Dive into the nocturnal world of John Zorn with "Full Fathom Five," a captivating suite of seven nocturnes that draw inspiration from Shakespeare's evocative night imagery. Released on June 23, 2023, via Tzadik Records, this 43-minute journey is a testament to Zorn's prowess in avant-garde, free jazz, and experimental music. The album features a stellar trio consisting of Brian Marsella on piano, Jorge Roeder on bass, and Ches Smith on drums, each track a unique exploration of mood and texture.
"Full Fathom Five" opens with "Where the Wild Thyme Blows," a haunting melody that sets the tone for the entire suite. The piano's delicate touches and the bass's subtle rhythms create an atmospheric soundscape, while Smith's drums add a layer of complexity. "I Cried to Dream Again" follows, with Marsella's piano taking center stage, weaving a melancholic tapestry that is both introspective and evocative.
The suite continues with "Behold the Night of Our Solemnities," a track that showcases the trio's improvisational skills. The interplay between the piano, bass, and drums is nothing short of mesmerizing, each instrument complementing the others in a dance of sound. "My Troublous Dreams" and "Phantasma" further delve into the nocturnal theme, with the former featuring a haunting melody and the latter a more abstract, experimental sound.
"The Shadow of a Dream" and "Swift as Shadow" round out the suite, each offering a unique perspective on the night. The former is a slow, contemplative piece, while the latter is a frenetic exploration of sound and rhythm. Throughout "Full Fathom Five," Zorn and his trio create a world that is both familiar and alien, a testament to their skill and creativity.
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