"Mary Halvorson & Noël Akchoté" is a captivating collaboration that defies conventional genre boundaries, blending free jazz, avant-garde, minimalism, medieval, and experimental influences into a rich, eclectic soundscape. Released on August 26, 2016, under Noël Akchoté's label, this album spans a generous 75 minutes, offering a diverse range of tracks that showcase the artists' innovative spirit and technical prowess.
Noël Akchoté, a versatile guitarist and composer, teams up with the equally talented Mary Halvorson to create a sonic journey that is as intellectually stimulating as it is aurally pleasing. The album opens with "Can I V?" and closes with "Oh Lord, Put That Gun Off Me!", encompassing a variety of moods and styles in between. Tracks like "Barnum" and "Icare Easter" highlight the album's experimental edge, while "Flowers - For Mary" and "Him & Her" offer moments of introspective beauty.
The album's medieval influences are subtly woven into the fabric of the music, adding a timeless quality that sets it apart from more conventional jazz releases. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or simply someone with an open mind and a love for innovative music, "Mary Halvorson & Noël Akchoté" promises a rewarding listening experience.