Labyrinth

"Labyrinth" is a captivating solo album by American jazz pianist Marilyn Crispell, recorded live at the 1987 edition of the Festival International de Musique Actuelle de Victoriaville on October 2nd. This album, released under the Les Disques VICTO label, is a testament to Crispell's mastery of free jazz, showcasing her improvisational skills and deep musical intuition.

The album features five tracks: "Threads in the Ozone," "Still Womb of Light," "Labyrinths," "Au chanteur qui danse," and "Encore." Each piece is a journey into the depths of Crispell's musical mind, with "Threads in the Ozone" and "Still Womb of Light" standing out as particularly evocative. The album is dedicated to Cecil Taylor, a significant influence in the world of free jazz, highlighting Crispell's respect for the genre's pioneers.

With a duration of 38 minutes, "Labyrinth" is a concise yet powerful collection of performances that demonstrate Crispell's ability to create complex, layered compositions in real-time. The album is a must-listen for fans of free jazz and those interested in the boundaries of improvisational music. Marilyn Crispell's "Labyrinth" is a live recording that captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, making it a unique addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

Marilyn Crispell is a pioneering force in the world of free jazz, renowned for her powerful and distinctive piano playing. Born in Philadelphia in 1947, Crispell's journey into jazz began in her late 20s when she discovered John Coltrane's music, setting her on a path to become one of the genre's most original and sought-after pianists. Her style, influenced by the likes of Coltrane and Cecil Taylor, is uniquely her own, characterized by a masterful use of space and an adventurous spirit that continually pushes boundaries.

Crispell's career is marked by her extensive work as a soloist and bandleader, as well as her collaborations with legendary figures such as saxophonist Anthony Braxton, with whom she performed in the 1980s and '90s. Her compositions and performances are known for their evocative and disciplined style, often described as akin to monitoring an active volcano, with a dynamic range that challenges and captivates. Crispell's contributions to the jazz world have been recognized with the prestigious NEA Jazz Master award, cementing her status as a true innovator in the realm of avant-garde jazz.