Jaimie Branch: Fly or Die II: Bird Dogs of Paradise review – a trumpet call to action
The US trumpeter – and now vocalist – lets out a furious, chaotic shriek in response to Trump’s America
The Comet Is Coming: The Afterlife review – totally of the now
Arriving just nine months after the London trio’s mould-breaking Trust in the Life Force, and recorded at the same time, there were fears this “companion piece” would prove a mere add-on. In reality The Afterlife has its own, distinct mood, … Continue reading
Art Ensemble of Chicago review – still free and funky after 50 years
With septuagenarians flanked by young rising stars, this was a thrilling show of scalding soloing and imaginative improv
Iggy Pop review – fearless punk rages against the dying of the light
The grizzled crooner is in a nihilistic mood, thumbing his nose at the Grim Reaper in this brilliantly spirited performance
Marius Neset: Viaduct review – voracious reinvention of jazz/classical borders
(ACT)The Norwegian saxophonist and composer continues to trailblaze, here combining forms with intensity and brilliance
Jan Garbarek Group review – smooth jazz and squeaky toys
Amid celebrations of the ECM label’s 50th anniversary, the Norwegian saxophonist delivered some compelling exploratory solo
Herbie Hancock review – fusion fantasist digs deep to keep it fresh
Even after half a century, the jazz legend’s playing was unpredictable as he switched effortlessly between styles
Cécile McLorin Salvant review – finely-honed artistry and charisma
The Grammy-winning American singer puts on a typically nonchalant performance full of revelations
Echoes of Swing: Winter Days at Schloss Elmau review – delightful cold comfort
If you’re looking for a seasonal album with a touch of class, this is it. Echoes of Swing are a quartet who take delight in exploring new approaches to classic jazz styles. The results are unfailingly witty, affectionate and faultlessly … Continue reading
Marilyn Mazur, Fredrik Lundin, Kasper Bai: Maluba Orchestra review – prepare to be won over
Maluba Orchestra consists of 13 players wielding a total of 32 instruments (not counting the percussion). It was set up by these three composers, each with a highly individual style, who also play in the band. It’s quite possible that … Continue reading
The Necks review – a magical mystery tour de force
Just what is it that makes this instrumentalist trio from Australia one of the most entrancing live acts in the world?
Julia Hülsmann Quartet: Not Far from Here review – Bowie and Miles in the ECM ballpark
Inquisitively contemporary jazz from the cooly virtuosic composer-pianist gives the legendary ECM label another gem to see in its 50th anniversary
Ethan Iverson Quartet: Common Practice review – outrageously logical
Another live album by a jazz quartet playing Great American Songbook tunes? Er, well, up to a point. There are certainly eight vintage standards here, along with a bebop classic and two originals, but I wouldn’t recommend any of them … Continue reading