John Zorn, the avant-garde maestro, presents "The Hermetic Organ Volume 13—Biennale Musica Venezia," a captivating live recording from his historic performance at the 2023 Venice Biennale. Captured at the 17th-century Palazzo Pisano, this album showcases Zorn's remarkable agility and improvisational prowess on two small antique organs at the Conservatorio Benedetto Marcello.
The album features two extended improvisations, "Satyricon" and "Epistola," spanning a total of 49 minutes. "Satyricon," the centerpiece of the album, is a sprawling, 42-minute exploration of sound and texture, while "Epistola" offers a more concise, yet equally engaging, six-minute journey. Zorn's performance is a testament to his ability to blend avant-garde, free jazz, and experimental elements into a cohesive and compelling whole.
Released on September 6, 2024, by Tzadik, "The Hermetic Organ Volume 13—Biennale Musica Venezia" is a must-listen for fans of John Zorn and enthusiasts of avant-garde and experimental music. The album is a wild, acoustic affair that highlights Zorn's unique ability to push the boundaries of traditional organ music. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to Zorn's work, this album is sure to impress and inspire.