Dive into the eclectic and boundary-pushing world of Nels Cline with his 2009 solo album, "Coward." This captivating collection of 15 tracks spans a generous 72 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of free jazz, avant-garde, and progressive jazz that showcases Cline's extraordinary versatility and innovation on the guitar.
"Coward" is not just an exercise in virtuosity; it's a journey through a diverse landscape of sounds and styles. From delicate acoustic passages to genre homages, abstract meditations, and even a touch of electro-funk, Cline's playing is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. The album's title track, "Epiphyllum," sets the tone with its intricate and mesmerizing guitar work, while tracks like "Thurston County" and "The Androgyne" highlight Cline's ability to blend raw energy with melodic sophistication.
One of the standout features of "Coward" is the "Onan Suite," a multi-part composition that demonstrates Cline's compositional prowess. Each segment of the suite offers a different facet of his musical personality, from the introspective "Amniotica" to the dynamic "The Liberator."
Recorded and released on the independent label Cryptogramophone, "Coward" is a testament to Nels Cline's unique vision and his ability to transcend the boundaries of traditional guitar music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Cline's work or a newcomer to his music, "Coward" offers a compelling and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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