"Born Free" is a captivating free jazz album by Italian pianist and composer Livio Minafra, released on June 29, 2015, under the Incipit Records label. Collaborating with the legendary South African drummer Louis Moholo-Moholo, Minafra delivers a powerful and dynamic set of six tracks that clock in at just over 40 minutes. The album features Minafra on piano and bells, with Moholo-Moholo providing rhythmic mastery on drums.
The album opens with "Canto General," a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the record, showcasing the duo's exceptional chemistry and improvisational skills. "Angel Nemali" and "Flying Flamingos" continue to explore the free jazz idiom, with intricate piano work and explosive drumming. "Kanya Apho Ukhona" offers a moment of introspection before "Foxtrot" brings a sense of playfulness and groove. The album concludes with "Canto General - Take Two," a reimagining of the opening track that brings the journey full circle.
Recorded live at Bunker Ulmenwall in Bielefeld, Germany, on January 13, 2015, the album captures the raw energy and spontaneity of the performance. The sound engineering by Tommy Cavalieri at Sorriso Studios in Bari ensures that every nuance of the performance is preserved. "Born Free" is a testament to the enduring power of free jazz and the creative synergy between Livio Minafra and Louis Moholo-Moholo. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a thrilling and immersive listening experience.
Vinylscout