"Silent Tongues" is a captivating journey through the avant-garde jazz landscape, masterfully crafted by the legendary Cecil Taylor. Released on January 1, 1975, under the Black Sun Music label, this album is a testament to Taylor's innovative spirit and his enduring influence on the genre. Clocking in at 53 minutes, "Silent Tongues" is a five-movement suite, each track a distinct exploration of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde sounds.
The album opens with "Abyss (First Movement)," setting the stage for the intricate and dynamic compositions that follow. "Petals & Filaments (Second Movement)" showcases Taylor's virtuosic piano playing, while "Jitney (Third Movement)" introduces a rhythmic complexity that is both challenging and engaging. "Crossing (Fourth Movement)" and "After All (Fifth Movement)" continue to push the boundaries of traditional jazz, demonstrating Taylor's fearless approach to musical experimentation.
In addition to the suite, the album includes two standout tracks, "Jitney No. 2" and "After All No. 2," which further highlight Taylor's ability to blend improvisation with structured composition. Throughout "Silent Tongues," Cecil Taylor's genius shines, making it a compelling listen for both jazz enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the outer reaches of musical innovation.