For Olim

Cecil Taylor's "For Olim" is a captivating live album recorded during the "Workshop Freie Music 1986" at the Academy Of Arts in Berlin, Germany, on April 9, 1986. Released on the Soul Note label in December 1987, this album is a testament to Taylor's mastery of free jazz and avant-garde styles, showcasing his unique approach to the piano. The album features eight tracks, including the sprawling 17-minute opening piece "Olim," which sets the tone for the rest of the record with its intense, improvisational energy. Throughout the album, Taylor explores a range of themes and moods, from the contemplative "Mirror And Water Gazing" to the dedicated piece "Living - Dedicated To Julian Beck." Each track offers a glimpse into Taylor's innovative and boundary-pushing musical vision. With a duration of just over 44 minutes, "For Olim" is a powerful and engaging listen for fans of jazz and avant-garde music alike. The album's live setting captures the raw energy and spontaneity of Taylor's performance, making it a standout release in his discography.

Cecil Taylor, born Cecil Percival Taylor, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and poet, renowned for his unparalleled virtuosity and innovative approach to music. Emerging in the mid-'50s, Taylor quickly established himself as one of the most advanced improvisers in jazz, and his radical style continued to evolve over five decades. Known for his nearly overwhelming orchestral facility on the piano, Taylor's performances were characterized by constant motion and restless speed, blending the compositional grandeur of European tradition with an intense, jackhammer-like energy. His collaborations, notably with Jimmy Lyons and Andrew Cyrille, are celebrated as some of the greatest in jazz history. Taylor's legacy as a free jazz and avant-garde pioneer continues to inspire, making him one of the most influential figures in the genre.

For Olim

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