Ibsen’s Ghosts

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde world of free jazz with Joe McPhee's "Ibsen's Ghosts," a captivating album that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz. Released on December 8, 2011, under the NotTwo label, this album is a testament to McPhee's innovative spirit and his ability to blend genres seamlessly. Joined by Jeb Bishop on trombone, Ingebrigt Håker Flaten on bass, and Michael Zerang on drums, McPhee crafts a sonic landscape that is both intricate and exhilarating.

"Ibsen's Ghosts" is a collection of five improvisational tracks, each offering a unique journey through the realms of free jazz and avant-garde music. The album opens with a mournful trombone, setting the stage for McPhee's saxophone to join in a haunting dialogue against Zerang's slow, rumbling percussion. The improvisations are not just random notes; they are carefully constructed dialogues between the musicians, each track telling its own story.

Recorded at the Victoria Theater in Oslo on February 21st, 2009, and mastered by Rafal Drewniany, the album captures the raw energy and spontaneity of the live performance. The production, co-produced by Marek Winiarski, ensures that every nuance and subtlety is preserved, offering a listening experience that is as immersive as it is engaging.

With a duration of 53 minutes, "Ibsen's Ghosts" is a journey through the creative minds of some of the most innovative musicians in the jazz world. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises to challenge and delight your senses. Don't miss the chance to explore the boundless creativity of Joe McPhee and his collaborators on this remarkable album.

December 8, 2011

2011 NotTwo

About Joe Mcphee

Joe McPhee is a pioneering figure in the world of jazz, renowned for his innovative approach to free jazz and avant-garde music. Born in Miami in 1939, McPhee is a multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire, mastering the tenor, alto, and soprano saxophones, as well as the trumpet, valve trombone, clarinet, and piano. His career spans over six decades, during which he has collaborated with legendary musicians such as Evan Parker, Pauline Oliveros, and Peter Brötzmann, and has led influential groups like Trio X and the Jumala Quintet.

McPhee's music is characterized by its deep emotional resonance and adventurous spirit. He is known for his conceptual and theoretical contributions to music, including his ideas of "Po Music" and "Sideways Thinking." His discography is vast and varied, featuring iconic albums like "Nation Time," "Black Magic Man," and "The Sweet Spot." McPhee's performances are not just musical events but experiences that challenge and inspire, making him a major figure in the jazz world. Whether teaching, writing, or performing, Joe McPhee continues to push the boundaries of jazz, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.