The Book Beri'ah, Vol. 11: Da'at

John Zorn's "The Book Beri'ah, Vol. 11: Da'at" is a captivating addition to his renowned Masada Book series, released on November 15, 2019, under the Tzadik label. This volume is a unique blend of avant-garde, free jazz, and experimental genres, showcasing Zorn's distinctive compositional style and his ability to push musical boundaries.

Featuring the virtuoso pianists Craig Taborn and Vadim Neselovskyi, "Da'at" offers a compelling mix of solo piano pieces, duets, and trio performances with bass and drums. The album's 13 tracks, including standout pieces like "Penimi," "Bohu," and "Kayam," are intricate and thoughtfully crafted, demonstrating the musicians' technical prowess and interpretive depth.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Da'at" is a substantial and immersive listening experience. The album is part of the larger "Book Beri'ah" box set, which completes the final ninety-two compositions of Zorn's Masada project. This volume, in particular, highlights the collaborative synergy between Zorn and the talented musicians involved, making it a standout entry in the series.

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.