"America's National Parks" is a sprawling, six-movement suite by the visionary composer and trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith, released in 2016 on Cuneiform Records. This ambitious double album is a testament to Smith's unique voice in the realms of free jazz and avant-garde, offering a profound exploration of America's natural landscapes through music.
The album is a journey through time and space, with each track dedicated to a different national park or natural landmark. From the ancient Mississippi River to the towering sequoias of California, and from the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the glacial valleys of Yosemite, Smith and his Golden Quintet capture the essence of these iconic locations. The suite is a blend of intricate compositions and improvisational brilliance, showcasing the ensemble's technical prowess and deep musical connection.
The album's duration of 1 hour and 36 minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of each location, with each movement offering a unique sonic landscape. The compositions are as varied as the parks they represent, ranging from the haunting and introspective to the exhilarating and triumphant. Throughout, Smith's trumpet soars and weaves, accompanied by the rhythmic complexity and harmonic richness of his quintet.
"America's National Parks" is not just an album; it's an experience, a sonic exploration of America's natural wonders. It's a testament to Wadada Leo Smith's artistry and his ability to translate the grandeur of nature into music. Whether you're a fan of jazz, an admirer of the great outdoors, or simply a lover of beautiful music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout