Zero

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde depths of Matthew Shipp's "Zero," a captivating solo exploration released on March 23, 2018, via ESP Disk'. This 44-minute journey through free jazz and nu jazz territories showcases Shipp's mastery of the piano, delivering a raw and unfiltered musical experience. The album, consisting of 11 concise yet impactful tracks, is a testament to Shipp's ability to pack multiple ideas into each composition, ensuring that every note resonates with purpose.

"Zero" begins with the titular track, setting the stage for an introspective and thought-provoking journey. Each piece, from the haunting "Abyss Before Zero" to the ethereal "Cosmic Sea," offers a unique perspective on Shipp's musical cosmos. The album's brevity belies its depth, with each track serving as a standalone piece while contributing to the overarching narrative of the collection.

Shipp's approach to "Zero" is unapologetically experimental, inviting listeners to engage with his idiosyncratic musical language. The album is not just a collection of songs but a philosophical exploration of nothingness, preceded by an hour-long lecture by Shipp himself, captured on a bonus disc. This additional layer adds context and depth to the music, offering a glimpse into the artist's thought process and creative vision.

"Zero" is a bold statement from one of jazz's most innovative minds, challenging listeners to engage with his unique musical perspective. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Zero" offers a compelling introduction to Matthew Shipp's avant-garde world.

March 23, 2018

2018 ESP Disk

About Matthew Shipp

Matthew Shipp is a pioneering force in American avant-garde jazz, renowned for his innovative approach to the piano and his prolific output as a composer and bandleader. With a career spanning several decades, Shipp has carved out a unique niche in the jazz world, blending free jazz with electronic elements and drawing inspiration from a wide range of influences. His music is characterized by its bold, exploratory nature, often pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz structures. Shipp's discography is extensive, featuring solo works like "The Piano Equation" and collaborative efforts with his trio, which includes Michael Bisio on bass and Whit Dickey on drums. Whether he's performing live tracks like "Circular Temple Number 1" or delving into the fusion of jazz and dancefloor electronics, Shipp's music is a testament to his artistic vision and technical mastery. His albums, such as "World Construct" and "Village Mothership," offer a deep dive into his creative process, making him a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast.