America

"America" is a captivating duet album by the renowned jazz trumpeter and composer Wadada Leo Smith, joined by the legendary drummer Jack DeJohnette. Released on May 19, 2009, via the avant-garde label Tzadik, this album is a testament to the enduring power of improvisation and the deep connection between these two master musicians.

Spanning just over 53 minutes, "America" is a journey through the landscapes of free jazz and avant-garde music. The album opens with the three-part suite "America," which sets the stage for the explorative and introspective journey that follows. Each track is a unique conversation between Smith's trumpet and DeJohnette's drums, showcasing their individual virtuosity and collective musical intuition.

Highlights include "Red Trumpet," a fiery and energetic piece that highlights Smith's commanding presence on the instrument, and "The Blue Mountain Sun Drummer (For Ed Blackwell)," a tribute to the legendary drummer Ed Blackwell, featuring intricate and dynamic interplay between the two musicians. The album also includes spiritual and mystical pieces like "Rabi'a's Unconditional Love" and "The Masnavi: The Falcon And The Owls," which add a layer of depth and introspection to the collection.

"America" is a powerful and engaging album that showcases the artistic prowess of Wadada Leo Smith and Jack DeJohnette. It's a fascinating exploration of sound and rhythm, and a testament to the enduring power of jazz as a medium for artistic expression. Whether you're a longtime fan of free jazz or a newcomer to the genre, "America" is sure to captivate and inspire.

Wadada Leo Smith is a pioneering figure in the world of creative music, renowned for his innovative approach to jazz and his profound compositions. As a trumpeter, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Smith's work is characterized by its structural inventiveness and emotional depth. Born and raised in the United States, Smith's musical journey began in his high school band, where he discovered his passion for composition. His contributions to the avant-garde and free jazz genres have been groundbreaking, earning him recognition as a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2013 for his monumental work "Ten Freedom Summers." Smith's music is not just about the notes; it's a testament to his humanistic and political beliefs, often reflecting his deep commitment to social and collective action. Whether through his expressive trumpet work or his thoughtful compositions, Wadada Leo Smith continues to inspire and challenge audiences with his unique vision and unwavering dedication to his art.