Quartet 1993 - 2nd Set - Anthony Braxton

Dive into the avant-garde jazz scene of 1993 with Anthony Braxton's "Quartet (Santa Cruz) 1993 - 2nd Set," a captivating live performance that showcases the brilliance of one of jazz's most innovative minds. Recorded in Santa Cruz, this album features Braxton on reeds, accompanied by the extraordinary talents of pianist Marilyn Crispell, bassist Mark Dresser, and drummer Gerry Hemingway. Together, they create a sonic landscape that is as bold as it is beautiful, pushing the boundaries of free jazz and avant-garde music.

Released by hatOLOGY in 2016, this two-track album captures the raw energy and improvisational genius of Braxton and his quartet. The performance is a testament to the musicians' collective virtuosity, with each member contributing unique and dynamic elements that blend seamlessly into a cohesive whole. Braxton's reeds soar and weave through the compositions, while Crispell's piano adds layers of complexity and depth. Dresser's bass provides a solid foundation, and Hemingway's drumming drives the music forward with precision and flair.

The album's two extended tracks, "Comp. 172" and "Comp. 161," are a testament to the quartet's ability to explore and innovate within the jazz idiom. Each composition is a journey in itself, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. The interplay between the musicians is nothing short of extraordinary, with each member responding to and building upon the others' contributions in real-time.

"Quartet (Santa Cruz) 1993 - 2nd Set" is not just a recording of a live performance; it is a snapshot of a moment in time when some of the greatest minds in jazz came together to create something truly special. The album is a must-listen for fans of Anthony Braxton and anyone interested in the avant-garde and free jazz genres. With its intricate compositions and exceptional performances, this album is a testament to the enduring power of improvisational music.

Anthony Braxton is a pioneering figure in the world of experimental and avant-garde jazz, renowned for his innovative compositions and virtuosic performances on a multitude of woodwind instruments, with a particular affinity for the saxophone. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Braxton's musical journey began with his involvement in the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), where he honed his skills and developed his unique musical philosophy. His groundbreaking 1969 album "For Alto," the first full-length solo saxophone record, catapulted him into the spotlight and established him as a trailblazer in the free jazz community.

Braxton's music is a complex tapestry that draws from a wide range of influences, blending Afrological traditions with experimental techniques. His compositions, often titled with diagrams rather than words, reflect his deep engagement with global creativity and humanity. As a multi-instrumentalist, he masterfully plays an array of saxophones, clarinets, and even the piano, showcasing his versatility and technical prowess.

Beyond his musical accomplishments, Braxton is also a dedicated educator and music theorist, having developed his own unique musical system that celebrates innovation and artistic expression. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious NEA Jazz Master award in 2014. With a prolific discography and a relentless creative spirit, Anthony Braxton continues to inspire and challenge audiences, solidifying his status as one of the most important musicians of the past half-century.

Quartet 1993 - 2nd Set

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