Garden Part 2

Cecil Taylor, a pioneer in the world of avant-garde jazz, presents "Garden Part 2," a live album recorded in Basel, Switzerland, on November 16, 1981, and released in 1990. This captivating collection of six tracks is a testament to Taylor's innovative approach to free jazz and hard bop, offering a unique blend of improvisation and composition that challenges and delights the ear.

The album opens with "Garden Ⅰ," a sprawling, 11-minute exploration that sets the stage for the rest of the journey. "Stepping on Stars" follows, with its intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity showcasing Taylor's virtuosity on the piano. "Introduction to Z" continues the album's exploratory theme, while "Driver Says" provides a brief but intense interlude. "Pemmican" and "Points" round out the album, each offering a distinct flavor of Taylor's signature style.

With a total runtime of just over 41 minutes, "Garden Part 2" is a concise yet powerful statement from one of jazz's most influential figures. The album's free jazz and avant-garde elements are balanced by moments of hard bop, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cecil Taylor or a newcomer to his work, "Garden Part 2" 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.