Sound Songs

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde jazz universe with Roscoe Mitchell's "Sound Songs," a sprawling double album released in 1997 on the esteemed Delmark label. This two-hour odyssey is a testament to Mitchell's innovative spirit and his pioneering role in the free jazz movement. The album is a solo endeavor, featuring Mitchell's masterful saxophone playing, complemented by an array of small instruments and strategic overdubs, creating a rich tapestry of sound.

"Sound Songs" is not just a collection of tracks but a journey through Mitchell's unique musical landscape. The album opens with the energetic "Let's Get Ready To Rumble" and takes listeners through a diverse range of compositions, from the whimsical "They All Had New Clothes" to the introspective "For Lester B." and the experimental "Song For Percussion And Bamboo Sax." The album's second disc delves into theatricality with "The Play" series, culminating in the enigmatic "The Dream Machine" and the poignant "Closer."

Mitchell's use of overdubs is a standout feature, adding layers of complexity and depth to his performances. The album's live recordings provide a raw and unfiltered experience, showcasing Mitchell's improvisational genius. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious explorer of avant-garde music, "Sound Songs" offers a captivating and thought-provoking listening experience.

1 januari 1997

About Roscoe Mitchell

Roscoe Mitchell is a pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde jazz, renowned for his innovative compositions and virtuosic performances on multiple woodwind instruments, with a particular mastery of the saxophone. Born in Chicago in 1940, Mitchell has been at the forefront of modern music for over half a century, co-founding both the Art Ensemble of Chicago and the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM). His work is characterized by a deliberate and methodical approach that pushes the boundaries of improvisation, earning him accolades as one of the key figures in avant-garde jazz. Mitchell's contributions extend beyond performance; he is also a respected educator and musical thinker, currently serving as the Darius Milhaud Chair of Composition at Mills College. With a career spanning over five decades, Mitchell continues to inspire and influence the jazz world, blending composition and improvisation in groundbreaking ways.