Sticks and Stones

Dive into the avant-garde jazz landscape with Matana Roberts' debut album "Sticks and Stones," a powerful collaboration with bassist Josh Abrams and drummer Chad Taylor. Released on January 1, 2002, via 482 Music, this 49-minute journey is a testament to the trio's mastery of free jazz, experimental, and avant-garde genres.

"Sticks and Stones" features Matana Roberts' distinctive alto saxophone, characterized by its full-bodied tonality, weaving through the intricate compositions. The album's eleven tracks, including standout pieces like "Turning the Mark," "Equally Strong," and "Suhassani," showcase the trio's improvisational skills and deep musical chemistry. Each song is a unique exploration, blending raw energy with delicate subtlety, making it a captivating listen from start to finish.

Matana Roberts, an associate member of Chicago's Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), brings her innovative spirit to the forefront. Her collaboration with Abrams and Taylor results in a dynamic and revelatory musical experience. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, "Sticks and Stones" offers a fresh and exhilarating perspective on contemporary jazz.

Matana Roberts is a multifaceted artist based in New York City, renowned for their innovative approach to sound and music. As a saxophonist, composer, and sound experimentalist, Roberts blends genres such as free jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music to create immersive, panoramic soundscapes. Their work is deeply rooted in exploration of history, memory, and ancestry, most notably through their acclaimed multichapter project "Coin Coin," which delves into African-American history and culture through various musical styles and media. Roberts' performances and recordings are not just auditory experiences but also visual and narrative journeys, incorporating elements of dance, poetry, and theater. With a background in the vibrant jazz scenes of Chicago and New York, and a membership in esteemed organizations like the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) and the Black Rock Coalition, Matana Roberts continues to push the boundaries of creative expression, making them a standout figure in contemporary music and art.

Sticks and Stones

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