Segments II-Winged Serpent

Cecil Taylor, a pioneer of free jazz and avant-garde music, presents "Segments II-Winged Serpent," a captivating album recorded in Milan, Italy, in October 1984 and released on December 31, 1985, under the Soul Note label. This album is a testament to Taylor's innovative approach to jazz, blending elements of free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop into a unique and dynamic sound.

"Segments II-Winged Serpent" features four extended tracks: "Taht," "Womb Waters Scent Of The Burning Armadillo Shell," "Cun-Un-Un-Un-An," and "Winged Serpent." Each piece showcases Taylor's virtuosic piano playing and his ability to lead a large ensemble, dubbed the "Orchestra of Two Continents," through complex and intricate compositions. The album's duration is a concise 43 minutes, ensuring a tight and engaging listening experience.

Taylor's work on this album is characterized by its intense energy, rhythmic complexity, and harmonic richness. The "Orchestra of Two Continents" includes a mix of European and American musicians, adding a unique international flavor to the music. The interplay between the musicians is both collaborative and exploratory, creating a sound that is both cohesive and adventurous.

"Segments II-Winged Serpent" is a must-listen for fans of Cecil Taylor and those interested in the boundaries of jazz. It offers a deep dive into the world of free jazz and avant-garde music, showcasing Taylor's enduring influence and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises a rewarding and thought-provoking experience.

Cecil Taylor, born Cecil Percival Taylor, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and poet, renowned for his unparalleled virtuosity and innovative approach to music. Emerging in the mid-'50s, Taylor quickly established himself as one of the most advanced improvisers in jazz, and his radical style continued to evolve over five decades. Known for his nearly overwhelming orchestral facility on the piano, Taylor's performances were characterized by constant motion and restless speed, blending the compositional grandeur of European tradition with an intense, jackhammer-like energy. His collaborations, notably with Jimmy Lyons and Andrew Cyrille, are celebrated as some of the greatest in jazz history. Taylor's legacy as a free jazz and avant-garde pioneer continues to inspire, making him one of the most influential figures in the genre.