Signs

Gerald Cleaver's "Signs," released on 27 March 2020 under 577 Records, is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds, rooted in the distinctive rhythms and spirit of Detroit. This album, spanning a total of 1 hour and 2 minutes, features 11 tracks, including three bonus tracks, each offering a unique blend of experimental and jazz elements. Cleaver, known for his innovative approach, composed and recorded "Signs" using VCV Rack, a free, open-source, cross-platform software modular synthesizer, adding a layer of electronic experimentation to his jazz background. The album's tracks, such as "Jackie's Smiles," "Amidst Curses," and the three-part "Signs" series, showcase Cleaver's ability to merge traditional jazz with modern, avant-garde techniques. Collaborating with Barcelona-born pianist Eva Novoa and bassist Masa Kamaguchi, "Signs" is a testament to Cleaver's versatility and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz, making it a compelling listen for both jazz enthusiasts and fans of experimental music.