Silent Tongues

Cecil Taylor's "Silent Tongues" is a captivating solo piano performance recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1974. This avant-garde jazz masterpiece was released in 1975 under the Black Sun Music label and spans a dynamic 53 minutes. The album is structured into five distinct movements: "Abyss," "Petals & Filaments," "Jitney," "Crossing," and "After All," each showcasing Taylor's virtuosic technique and innovative approach to free jazz and hard bop.

Taylor's playing is intense and exploratory, with a relentless energy that drives the music forward. His compositions are intricate and layered, revealing new depths with each listen. The album also includes two additional tracks, "Jitney No. 2" and "After All No. 2," which further highlight his improvisational genius.

"Silent Tongues" is celebrated for its raw power and emotional resonance, earning critical acclaim and being named Downbeat magazine's record of the year. It remains a standout in Taylor's extensive discography, offering a thrilling glimpse into the mind of one of jazz's most visionary musicians. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, this album promises an unforgettable auditory experience.