The Cold Arrow

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde sonic landscape of Guillermo Gregorio's "The Cold Arrow," a captivating exploration of free jazz released on December 1, 2023, via Balance Point Acoustics. This 49-minute journey features Guillermo Gregorio on B♭ and A clarinets, joined by Damon Smith on double bass and Jerome Bryerton on a variety of percussive elements, including Paiste Bronze Series gongs, selected metal, and cymbals, but notably, no drums. This second trio release from the trio showcases their unique chemistry and innovative approach to improvisation.

"The Cold Arrow" comprises ten tracks, each a testament to the band's collective virtuosity and their fearless approach to genre boundaries. The album opens with "Planar Effect 3" and closes with "Planar Effect 7," bookending a journey through intricate compositions and spontaneous improvisations. The interplay between Gregorio's clarinets, Smith's double bass, and Bryerton's percussive textures creates a rich tapestry of sound, inviting listeners to explore the outer reaches of jazz and avant-garde music.

Guillermo Gregorio, known for his previous works such as "Two Trios" and "Faktura," continues to push the boundaries of his artistry with "The Cold Arrow." This album is a testament to his unique voice in the world of free jazz and his ability to create compelling, thought-provoking music. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious explorer of avant-garde sounds, "The Cold Arrow" offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience.

December 1, 2023

(P) 2024 Balance Point Acoustics

About Guillermo Gregorio

Guillermo Gregorio is a pioneering figure in the world of jazz and free improvisation, known for his masterful performances on the clarinet and saxophone, as well as his innovative compositions. Born in Buenos Aires in 1941, Gregorio's musical journey began at the age of 14, and his early interests spanned both jazz and contemporary classical music. His background in architecture and design, which he studied and taught in Buenos Aires and later in Chicago, has significantly influenced his unique approach to music, blending spatial and gestural elements into his compositions.

Gregorio's career is marked by his involvement in experimental music scenes, including the Fluxus activities of Argentine performance groups like Movimiento Música Mús. He has lived and worked in various cities around the world, including Vienna, Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, each location adding layers to his diverse musical language. His discography reflects a deep exploration of sound and form, with notable works like "Degrees of Iconicity" and "Two Trios" showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend improvisation with structured composition.

Whether performing or composing, Guillermo Gregorio continues to push the boundaries of jazz and free improvisation, offering audiences a rich and thought-provoking musical experience. His work is a testament to his enduring curiosity and dedication to the art of sound.