Charles Lloyd Quartet's "Mirror," released in 2010 on ECM Records, is a captivating journey through the realms of free jazz, hard bop, and contemporary jazz. This studio album, recorded in December 2009, showcases the quartet's exceptional chemistry and musical prowess. The ensemble features Charles Lloyd on saxophone, Jason Moran on piano, Rueben Rogers on double bass, and Eric Harland on drums, delivering a tightly focused and deeply engaging performance.
"Mirror" is a testament to the quartet's ability to blend classic jazz standards with original compositions, creating a rich and diverse listening experience. The album opens with "I Fall in Love Too Easily," a tender and melodic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Tracks like "Go Down Moses" and "La llorona" showcase the quartet's mastery of traditional jazz forms, while "Desolation Sound" and "Mirror" highlight their innovative approach to free jazz. The album also includes a beautiful rendition of "Ruby, My Dear," a classic jazz standard, and "The Water Is Wide," a traditional folk song that adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Mirror" offers a comprehensive exploration of the quartet's musical versatility. The album's production quality is top-notch, with a 24-bit, 88.2 kHz FLAC format available for audiophiles. Charles Lloyd's saxophone playing is as expressive and dynamic as ever, complemented by the impeccable musicianship of his fellow quartet members. "Mirror" is a standout release in the jazz genre, showcasing the Charles Lloyd Quartet's ability to push boundaries while staying true to the essence of jazz.
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