Song Unconditional

Alexander Hawkins presents "Song Unconditional," a captivating solo piano journey released on Intakt Records on May 16, 2025. This 13-track album spans 55 minutes of intricate and adventurous compositions, firmly rooted in the traditions of free jazz and avant-garde music. Hawkins' mastery shines through each piece, offering a blend of playfulness and intensity that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.

Recorded, mixed, and mastered in Italy by the renowned Stefano Amerio, the sonic quality of "Song Unconditional" is impeccable, ensuring that every nuance of Hawkins' performance is captured with clarity and depth. The album features a variety of short, original pieces, each showcasing Hawkins' unique ability to balance tradition with innovation.

From the polyphonic explorations of "Polyphonic Song" to the delicate intricacies of "Her Heart Carries Gold to Match Her Eyes," Hawkins' compositions are both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Tracks like "Song of Infinite Variations" and "Song Symmetrical" highlight his knack for creating complex, yet accessible, musical landscapes. The album's title track, "Song Unconditional," encapsulates the essence of Hawkins' artistry, offering a profound and unfiltered expression of his musical vision.

"Song Unconditional" is a testament to Alexander Hawkins' skill and creativity, making it a standout release in the world of contemporary jazz. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Alexander Hawkins is a pioneering British jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader, celebrated for his innovative and unique sound that defies conventional categorization. Born in Oxford in 1981, Hawkins has carved out a distinctive niche in the modern creative music landscape, blending a deep fascination with composition and structure with a love for open forms and improvisation. His musical journey is marked by a profound affinity for the music of Ethiopia, honed through collaborations with legendary figures like Mulatu Astatke.

Hawkins leads several notable ensembles, including the Alexander Hawkins Ensemble, the Convergence Quartet, and the Hammond organ-based Decoy, each showcasing his versatility and creative prowess. His collaborations extend beyond his own groups, with notable partnerships including Sofia Jernberg, with whom he released the acclaimed album "Musho" in 2024. Hawkins' music has been described as "unlike anything else in modern creative music," with a sound that is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.

Throughout his career, Hawkins has received numerous awards and commissions, solidifying his status as one of the most innovative musicians of his generation. His performances and recordings are not just musical experiences but journeys into the depths of sound and structure, making him a standout figure in the contemporary jazz scene.

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