Stellar Pulsations: Three Composers

Album Description

"Stellar Pulsations: Three Composers" is a captivating journey into the world of avant-garde jazz and modern classical music, showcasing the extraordinary talents of pianist Marilyn Crispell. Released in 1994 on Leo Records, this album features three distinct compositions written specifically for Crispell, each offering a unique exploration of sound and structure.

The album opens with "Costellar Pulsations" by Robert Cogan, a piece that Crispell performs with a second pianist, Ellen Polansky. This duet sets the stage for the intricate and collaborative nature of the music to come. The second piece, "Mirabilis II" by Pozzi Escot, is performed in three movements, each one delving deeper into the complexities of Crispell's interpretive skills. The album concludes with "Concerto for Marilyn" by Manfred Niehaus, a four-movement work that highlights Crispell's virtuosity and artistic depth.

Throughout the album, Crispell's playing is characterized by its precision, sensitivity, and innovative approach to rhythm and melody. The compositions themselves are a blend of structured notation and improvisational freedom, allowing Crispell to explore the full range of her musicality. The result is a collection of performances that are as intellectually stimulating as they are aesthetically pleasing.

"Stellar Pulsations: Three Composers" is not just a showcase of Crispell's technical prowess, but also a testament to her ability to bring out the unique qualities of each composition. Whether you're a fan of jazz, classical music, or simply appreciate innovative and thought-provoking music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression. With a running time of just over 52 minutes, it's an album that rewards repeated listening, revealing new layers of complexity and beauty with each play.

1 januari 1994

1994 Leo Records

About Marilyn Crispell

Marilyn Crispell is a pioneering force in the world of free jazz, renowned for her powerful and distinctive piano playing. Born in Philadelphia in 1947, Crispell's journey into jazz began in her late 20s when she discovered John Coltrane's music, setting her on a path to become one of the genre's most original and sought-after pianists. Her style, influenced by the likes of Coltrane and Cecil Taylor, is uniquely her own, characterized by a masterful use of space and an adventurous spirit that continually pushes boundaries.

Crispell's career is marked by her extensive work as a soloist and bandleader, as well as her collaborations with legendary figures such as saxophonist Anthony Braxton, with whom she performed in the 1980s and '90s. Her compositions and performances are known for their evocative and disciplined style, often described as akin to monitoring an active volcano, with a dynamic range that challenges and captivates. Crispell's contributions to the jazz world have been recognized with the prestigious NEA Jazz Master award, cementing her status as a true innovator in the realm of avant-garde jazz.