Dave Douglas, the renowned jazz trumpeter and composer, presents "Spark of Being: Expand," a captivating exploration of free jazz and contemporary sounds, released on August 24, 2010, under the Greenleaf Music label. This album is the second part of a trilogy, following the initial unveiling of the multimedia collaboration between Douglas and experimental filmmaker Bill Morrison at Stanford University on April 24, 2010.
"Spark of Being: Expand" is a 42-minute journey through innovative compositions, performed by Dave Douglas and his electric band, Keystone. The album features seven tracks, including "Spark of Being," "Creature," and "Tree Ring Circus," each offering a unique blend of avant-garde jazz and film soundtrack elements. The music is a testament to Douglas's versatility and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz.
The album's genres span free jazz and jazz fusion, with a touch of experimental film soundtrack, making it a compelling listen for fans of both jazz and contemporary music. The compositions delve into themes from the original "Spark of Being" project, offering a fresh and experimental take on the initial concepts.
With an average rating of 4.15 out of 5 on Discogs and a RYM rating of 3.49 out of 5, "Spark of Being: Expand" has been well-received by critics and audiences alike. The album is a testament to Dave Douglas's artistic vision and his continued innovation in the world of jazz.