Spinoza

Dive into the avant-garde world of John Zorn with his latest offering, "Spinoza," a bold and innovative exploration of jazz, metal, and experimental sounds. Released on April 15, 2022, via Tzadik Records, this album is the latest from Zorn's searing jazz-metal trio, Simulacrum, and features two extended concerti that showcase the extraordinary talents of the ensemble.

The album kicks off with "Immanence," a 22-minute piece that highlights the guitar virtuosity of Bill Frisell. The title track, "Spinoza," is a 20-minute showcase for Zorn himself on alto saxophone, accompanied by the powerful organ work of John Medeski and the technical metal prowess of Kenny Grohowski on drums and Matt Hollenberg on guitar. Together, they create a sonic landscape that is as intellectually stimulating as it is musically exhilarating.

"Spinoza" is inspired by the life and thought of the renowned philosopher Baruch Spinoza, and while it may not directly evoke his philosophical ideas, it certainly captures the spirit of his iconoclastic approach to thought. The album is a testament to John Zorn's ongoing exploration of Jewish culture, history, and identity, and his ability to push the boundaries of musical genres.

With a total runtime of just over 42 minutes, "Spinoza" is a concise yet powerful statement from one of the most innovative and influential figures in contemporary music. Whether you're a long-time fan of John Zorn or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to challenge and inspire you.

John Zorn is a boundary-defying American composer, saxophonist, and producer renowned for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. Resisting easy categorization, Zorn's work spans an impressive range of genres, including jazz, rock, classical, metal, and world music, often blending them in unexpected and innovative ways. A prolific artist, he has released a vast discography, including the monumental 11-album box set "The Book Beriah," which features 92 compositions. Zorn is also the founder of the Tzadik record label, a platform for experimental and avant-garde music, and has collaborated with numerous influential musicians. His groundbreaking ensemble Naked City is often cited as a precursor to the jazz-metal fusion genre. Zorn's compositions often incorporate unique structures, such as his celebrated "game" pieces like "Cobra," which guide large, diverse groups of musicians through intricate musical strategies. With a career that has spanned decades, John Zorn continues to be a catalyst for innovation and a major influence in contemporary music.