The Catch of a Ghost

Album Description

"The Catch of a Ghost" is a captivating live album that showcases the extraordinary collaboration between German saxophonist Peter Brötzmann, Moroccan guembri master Maâlem Mokhtar Gania, and American drummer Hamid Drake. Recorded in May 2019 at the Centro di Ricerca Musicale / Teatro San Leonardo in Bologna, Italy, during the AngelicA Festival Internazionale di Musica, this album is a testament to the power of cross-cultural musical dialogue.

The album features four extended improvisations that blend the raw energy of free jazz with the trance-inducing rhythms and melodies of Gnawa music. Peter Brötzmann's tenor saxophone and tarogato wail and moan, while Mokhtar Gania's guembri and voice provide a hypnotic foundation, and Hamid Drake's drums drive the music forward with a relentless, yet sensitive, pulse.

"The Catch of a Ghost" is not just a meeting of minds, but also a reunion of sorts. Brötzmann and Drake have a long history of playing together, and they previously recorded with Mokhtar Gania's late brother, Mahmoud, over two decades ago. This album is a celebration of their shared musical history and a testament to the enduring power of their collaboration.

With a running time of over an hour, "The Catch of a Ghost" is a challenging and rewarding listen. It's a live album that captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, while also showcasing the deep musical understanding and chemistry between the three musicians. Whether you're a fan of free jazz, world music, or just great music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

May 12, 2020

2020 I dischi di angelica

About Peter Brötzmann

Peter Brötzmann, a titan of European free jazz, was a saxophonist and clarinetist whose powerful and uncompromising playing style left an indelible mark on the genre. Born in Remscheid, Germany, Brötzmann's journey into jazz began at the age of 13, inspired by a transformative concert by Sidney Bechet. Throughout his career, he released over fifty albums as a bandleader, collaborating with legendary figures such as Derek Bailey, Anthony Braxton, and Cecil Taylor, as well as experimental musicians like Keiji Haino and Charles Hayward. His 1968 album "Machine Gun" is hailed as a landmark of 20th-century free jazz, showcasing his radical and energetic approach to music. Brötzmann's playing was known for its intensity and raw emotional power, yet he could also deliver subtle and tender sounds, demonstrating his versatility and depth as an artist. His music was a reflection of his compassionate nature and deep connection to the natural world, breaking down barriers and exploring the beauty of life. Brötzmann's influence on free jazz is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike.