Guy: Time Passing

Album Description

Barry Guy's captivating album, Time Passing, is a masterful blend of free jazz and avant-garde elements, showcasing his innovative approach to composition. Released on 29 January 2016 via Maya Recordings, this 67-minute album is a thought-provoking exploration of time and its passage.

Inspired by Johann Christoph Bach's wedding cantata, Meine Freundin, du bist schön, and structured around Edward Morgan's poem Epilogue: Seven Decades, Time Passing features a talented ensemble, including Anja Pöche on soprano, Matthew Brook on baritone, Savina Yannatou on vocals, and Barry Guy on double bass, accompanied by the Camerata Zürich string ensemble.

The album's 10 tracks, ranging from the introductory 'Introduction and Glissandi I' to the poignant 'Pt. VII', demonstrate Barry Guy's skill in crafting a cohesive and emotionally resonant work. With its unique blend of improvisation and composition, Time Passing is a testament to Barry Guy's innovative spirit and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz and classical music.

Featuring a range of textures and moods, from the introspective to the explosive, Time Passing is an album that rewards close listening and reflection. Barry Guy's vision, combined with the exceptional talents of the ensemble, results in a rich and complex work that will appeal to fans of experimental and avant-garde music.

December 29, 2016

2015 Maya Recordings

About Barry Guy

Barry Guy, born in London in 1947, is a pioneering figure in the world of contemporary music, renowned for his innovative work as a double bass player and composer. His musical journey spans a wide spectrum of genres, including free jazz, avant-garde, early music, and improvisation. Guy's artistic versatility is evident in his collaborations with various orchestras across the UK and Europe, as well as his role as the founder and artistic director of the London Jazz Composers Orchestra. His compositions and performances are marked by a deep creative diversity, making him a standout figure in both jazz improvisation and classical chamber and orchestral settings. Currently based in Switzerland, Guy continues to push the boundaries of musical expression, captivating audiences with his unique and dynamic approach to music.