Dive into the avant-garde world of Gordon Grdina with his captivating 2017 album, "Ghost Lights." This enthralling collection of seven tracks, spanning over an hour and ten minutes, is a testament to Grdina's mastery of free jazz and avant-garde genres. Released on the esteemed Songlines label, this album features Grdina's innovative guitar work alongside the talents of François Houle on clarinet and electronics, Kenton Loewen on drums and percussion, and Benoît Delbecq on piano and bass station.
"Ghost Lights" is a sonic journey through intricate compositions and improvisational brilliance. The album opens with "Soro," a piece that sets the tone with its rich textures and dynamic interplay. Tracks like "Ley Land" and "Gold Spheres" showcase the band's ability to weave complex rhythms and harmonies, while "Broken World" offers a stark contrast with its minimalist approach. The title track, "Ghost Lights," is a standout, stretching over fifteen minutes and demonstrating the ensemble's prowess in creating immersive, atmospheric soundscapes.
Each track on "Ghost Lights" is a testament to the collaborative spirit and individual artistry of the musicians involved. Grdina's guitar work is both delicate and powerful, complementing Houle's expressive clarinet and Delbecq's nuanced piano playing. Loewen's percussion adds a layer of depth and energy, tying the ensemble together with his precise and inventive drumming.
For fans of experimental jazz and those seeking fresh, boundary-pushing music, "Ghost Lights" is an essential addition to any collection. Gordon Grdina and his collaborators have crafted an album that is as intellectually stimulating as it is sonically rewarding, making it a standout release in the world of contemporary jazz.
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