Playing For Friends on 5th Street

Album Description

Derek Bailey, a titan of the free jazz and avant-garde scenes, invites you into an intimate setting with "Playing For Friends on 5th Street," a captivating live performance captured on DVD. Recorded on December 29, 2001, this unique concert features Bailey in an up-close and personal show for a select group of friends and fans, offering a rare glimpse into his spontaneous and improvisational genius.

The DVD, released by Straw2Gold Pictures on December 22, 2004, spans 42 minutes and includes seven tracks, each a testament to Bailey's mastery of the guitar and his pioneering spirit in experimental music. Produced and directed by Robert O'Haire, this release is dedicated to the late Irving Stone and his wife, adding a touch of personal history to the viewing experience.

"Playing For Friends on 5th Street" is not just a performance; it's a historical document of a legendary musician in his element. Bailey's playing is as unpredictable as it is mesmerizing, with each note and chord seemingly born from the moment itself. The DVD format allows viewers to witness the subtleties of Bailey's technique and the sheer joy he finds in musical exploration.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Derek Bailey or new to his groundbreaking work, this DVD offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the magic of his live performances. The intimate setting and high-quality production make it a standout addition to any music enthusiast's collection.

1 januari 2004

2004 Derek Bailey, straw2gold pictures

About Derek Bailey

Derek Bailey, born in Sheffield in 1930, was a pioneering British guitarist renowned for his groundbreaking work in free improvisation. Emerging from the trad-jazz scene, Bailey's career took a dramatic turn in the 1960s when he shifted his focus to experimental and avant-garde music. His innovative approach to the guitar, which he virtually reinvented, set him apart as one of the most influential and adventurous musicians of his time. Bailey's music was entirely based on improvisation, operating outside any pre-existing idiom, and his performances were always unique and unpredictable. Before his untimely death in 2005, Bailey left an indelible mark on the world of experimental music, inspiring countless musicians with his fearless exploration of sound and technique.