"Alto" is a captivating live album by the legendary free jazz saxophonist Joe McPhee, recorded on May 4, 2009, at the intimate Local 269 club on New York City's Lower East Side. This high-energy performance, released on the Roaratorio label, captures McPhee's raw and expressive alto saxophone playing, accompanied by the dynamic duo of Kim Johannesen on guitar and Chris Corsano on drums.
The album features five original compositions, each dedicated to influential figures in the jazz and poetry worlds. "Lower East Side Shout (for Alton Pickens)" kicks off the set with a fiery and energetic display of McPhee's signature free jazz style. "Old Eyes (for Ornette Coleman)" pays homage to the free jazz pioneer, while "W.I.S. (for Warren Smith)" and "Soul Of A Poet (for Steve Dalachinsky)" showcase McPhee's ability to blend improvisation with structured composition. The album concludes with the enigmatic "Take The V Train," leaving the audience eager for more.
With a runtime of just over 41 minutes, "Alto" is a concise yet powerful testament to McPhee's enduring influence on the free jazz genre. The album's raw and unfiltered sound, captured live, offers an authentic and immersive experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to McPhee's music. "Alto" is a testament to Joe McPhee's enduring influence on the free jazz genre, showcasing his raw and expressive playing style alongside his ability to craft compelling compositions.
Vinylscout