Garden 1st Set

Dive into the exhilarating world of avant-garde jazz with Cecil Taylor's "Garden 1st Set," a captivating live album recorded at the Grosser Saal Volkshaus in Basel, Switzerland, on November 16, 1981. This re-mastered gem, released by hatOLOGY on March 13, 2015, offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into Taylor's masterful blend of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde sensibilities.

The album kicks off with the sprawling "Elell," a 26-minute exploration of Cecil Taylor's unique compositional style, showcasing his virtuosic piano playing and improvisational prowess. The second track, "Garden 1," is a more concise yet equally powerful piece, demonstrating Taylor's ability to convey depth and complexity in a shorter format. The album concludes with "Stepping On Stars," a fitting finale that encapsulates the energy and innovation that define Taylor's work.

"Garden 1st Set" is not just a collection of songs; it's a testament to Cecil Taylor's enduring influence on the jazz genre. With a total duration of 47 minutes, this album is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast seeking to expand their musical horizons. The live setting adds an extra layer of authenticity, capturing the spontaneity and intensity of Taylor's performances. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cecil Taylor or a newcomer to his music, "Garden 1st Set" is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Cecil Taylor, born Cecil Percival Taylor, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and poet, renowned for his unparalleled virtuosity and innovative approach to music. Emerging in the mid-'50s, Taylor quickly established himself as one of the most advanced improvisers in jazz, and his radical style continued to evolve over five decades. Known for his nearly overwhelming orchestral facility on the piano, Taylor's performances were characterized by constant motion and restless speed, blending the compositional grandeur of European tradition with an intense, jackhammer-like energy. His collaborations, notably with Jimmy Lyons and Andrew Cyrille, are celebrated as some of the greatest in jazz history. Taylor's legacy as a free jazz and avant-garde pioneer continues to inspire, making him one of the most influential figures in the genre.