Live In Berlin

Album Description

Marilyn Crispell's "Live in Berlin" is a captivating live album that captures the essence of free jazz, recorded during the prestigious Total Music Meeting in Berlin on November 4th, 1982. Released in 1984 on the Black Saint label, this album showcases Crispell's virtuosity as a pianist and her prowess in the avant-garde jazz scene.

The album features three extended compositions: "A B C [for Anthony Braxton]," "Chant," and "Burundi." Each piece is a testament to Crispell's innovative approach to jazz, blending intricate melodies with improvisational brilliance. The set is dominated by the opening track, dedicated to the influential composer and multi-instrumentalist Anthony Braxton, with whom Crispell has had a fruitful collaborative history.

Joining Crispell on this recording are esteemed musicians Billy Bang on violin, Peter Kowald on bass, and John Betsch on drums. Their collective energy and synergy create a dynamic and engaging listening experience. The album's duration of 46 minutes is packed with moments of intense musical dialogue and spontaneous creativity, making it a standout release in Crispell's discography.

"Live in Berlin" is a must-listen for fans of free jazz and those interested in the cutting-edge developments of the genre in the early 1980s. Crispell's playing is both technically impressive and deeply expressive, offering a unique perspective on the possibilities of jazz piano. This album is a testament to her status as one of the major avant-garde pianists to emerge during this period.

December 28, 1984

1984 Kepach Music S.r.l.

About Marilyn Crispell

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.