Craig Taborn's "Shadow Plays" is a captivating live solo piano album that showcases the artist's extraordinary improvisational skills and innovative approach to jazz. Recorded at the prestigious Konzerthaus in Vienna on March 2, 2020, this ECM Records release is a testament to Taborn's versatility, blending free jazz, avant-garde, and contemporary jazz elements into a cohesive and dynamic performance.
The album opens with the expansive "Bird Templars," a 17-minute piece that immediately draws listeners in with its intricate ostinato patterns and rhythmic complexity. Throughout the album, Taborn demonstrates his mastery of both whispered understatement and contemporary bombast, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is as introspective as it is explosive.
"Shadow Plays" is fully improvised, highlighting Taborn's ability to weave together disparate musical ideas into a cohesive whole. The title track, "Shadow Play," is a standout, featuring resonant chords that breathe new life into the possibility of harmony. Other tracks, such as "Discordia Concors" and "Concordia Discors," play with the tension between discord and harmony, showcasing Taborn's nuanced understanding of musical dynamics.
With a duration of 75 minutes, the album offers a substantial and immersive listening experience. Taborn's technical prowess and creative vision make "Shadow Plays" a remarkable addition to his discography and a compelling exploration of the solo piano format. Whether you're a longtime fan of Craig Taborn or new to his work, this album is sure to impress with its depth, innovation, and sheer musicality.
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