Jamie Saft's "Ticonderoga," released in 2015 under the Clean Feed label, is a captivating journey into the realm of free jazz. This album, inspired by a mutual admiration for John Coltrane's "Live at Birdland," brings together an impressive ensemble featuring Jamie Saft, Joe McPhee, Joe Morris, and Charles Downs. Recorded in Saft's studio in the Catskill Mountains, near the historic site of Ticonderoga, the album is a testament to the power of improvisation and the deep connections between its musicians.
Spanning just four tracks—"Beyond Days," "Simplicity of Man," "Leaves of Certain," and "A Backward King"—the album clocks in at a substantial hour, offering a rich and immersive experience. Each track is a testament to the musicians' virtuosity and their ability to push the boundaries of jazz. The album's free jazz style is both challenging and rewarding, inviting listeners to explore the intricate interplay between the saxophones of McPhee and Morris, the dynamic drumming of Downs, and Saft's masterful keyboard work.
"Ticonderoga" is not just an album; it's a conversation, a meeting of minds and instruments that results in a sound that is both raw and refined. The album's title, inspired by the junction of two waterways, reflects the collaborative spirit and the fluid, ever-evolving nature of the music within. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Ticonderoga" offers a profound and engaging listening experience that showcases the best of free jazz improvisation.
Vinylscout