As Serious as Your Life

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde world of jazz with Joe McPhee's "As Serious as Your Life," a captivating album released under the hatOLOGY label in November 2014. This collection of 11 tracks, spanning a total of 56 minutes, showcases McPhee's mastery of free jazz and his innovative approach to the genre. The album features a blend of remastered tracks, including the poignant "The Death of Miles Davis" and the soulful "Ain't Nothin but the Blues," as well as new compositions like "Haiku Study 1" and "Conlon in the Land of Ra."

McPhee's virtuosity shines through as he seamlessly transitions between reeds, pocket cornet, piano, and electronics, creating a rich tapestry of sound that is both challenging and rewarding. The album's title track, "As Serious as Your Life," is presented in two parts, offering a deep dive into McPhee's musical philosophy and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz.

"As Serious as Your Life" is not just an album; it's a testament to Joe McPhee's enduring influence on the world of avant-garde jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a unique and engaging listening experience that highlights the depth and diversity of McPhee's musical vision.

11 november 2014

About Joe Mcphee

Joe McPhee is a pioneering American musician who has been a vital force in the creative and free jazz worlds since the late 1960s. Born and raised in New York, McPhee is a multi-instrumentalist whose music is deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscapes of his time. His seminal 1971 album "Nation Time" is a powerful testament to the black cultural nationalist movement, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with profound social commentary. McPhee's style is as diverse as it is dynamic, drawing influences from the ecstatic improvisations of Coltrane, the complex melodies of Dolphy, and the rich traditions of funk and blues. His tone on the trumpet and saxophone ranges from harsh, wailing cries to precise, lyrical phrases, making him a versatile and captivating performer. Even at 85, McPhee continues to push boundaries, delivering knockout performances that blend spoken word with sparse, evocative instrumentation. His extensive discography, including works like "Tales Out Of Time" and "Black Magic Man," offers a journey through six decades of innovative and influential music.