Arild Andersen's "Lifelines," released on March 1, 1981, under ECM Records, is a captivating exploration of free jazz that showcases the Norwegian bassist and composer's innovative spirit and deep musicality. Clocking in at 43 minutes, this album is a testament to Andersen's ability to blend improvisation with structured composition, creating a sound that is both spontaneous and deeply thoughtful.
The album opens with "Cameron," a prelude that sets the stage for the journey ahead, followed by "Landloper," a track that highlights Andersen's virtuosic bass playing and his knack for creating intricate, engaging melodies. "Predawn" and "Dear Kenny" delve into more introspective territory, showcasing Andersen's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music. "A Song I Used To Play" is a nostalgic piece that reflects on the past, while "Lifelines" and "Anew" bring the album to a close with a sense of renewal and hope.
Throughout "Lifelines," Andersen is joined by a stellar lineup of musicians, including pianist Jon Balke, saxophonist Frode Gjerstad, and drummer Jon Christensen, among others. Their collective improvisational skills and deep understanding of jazz tradition make this album a standout in the free jazz genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Arild Andersen or new to his music, "Lifelines" is an album that will captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout