Darren Johnston's "Reasons for Moving," released in 2007 on Not Two Records, is a captivating journey into the realms of free jazz and avant-garde music. This album, featuring the talents of Fred Frith on electric guitar, Larry Ochs on tenor and sopranino saxophones, Devin Hoff on bass, and Ches Smith on drums, is a testament to the power of improvisation and collaborative musicianship.
The nine-track album, spanning 52 minutes, showcases the unique interplay between the musicians, each bringing their distinctive style to create a cohesive and dynamic sound. The album opens with "Passing Fields," setting the tone for the exploratory and spontaneous nature of the music that follows. Tracks like "Dawn and the Flat Irons" and "Deep North" highlight the conversational aspects of the performances, with each musician contributing to a seamless and thoughtful musical dialogue.
Darren Johnston, known for his previous works such as "Neon Truth" and "Up from Under," takes the lead on trumpet, composing and producing the album with a keen ear for detail. His contributions, along with those of his fellow musicians, make "Reasons for Moving" a standout release in the world of avant-garde jazz. The album's intricate compositions and improvisational flair make it a compelling listen for both jazz enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
Vinylscout