"Cassava Balls" is a captivating journey into the world of free jazz and avant-garde music, crafted by the innovative Hartmut Geerken. Released in January 1999 under The Golden Years of Jazz label, this album is a testament to Geerken's mastery of improvisation and his unique approach to jazz. The album features a stellar lineup, including John Tchicai and Famoudou Don Moye, recorded live at PRAXIS in 1985 and remastered by Mick Richie.
The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, filled with eight tracks that push the boundaries of traditional jazz. From the provocative title track "Cassava Balls" to the introspective "Mothers" and the energetic "Rosty Metal," each piece offers a unique sonic experience. The album's genres, free jazz and avant-garde, are evident in the experimental nature of the compositions and the improvisational skills of the musicians.
The album's tracklist includes "Patriotic Poem Number One Forty Years After," "Sawasawa," "Races Places Faces And Asses," "Mohawk," "Marconison," "Cassava Snake One Pot," and "Mikel Black." Each track is a standalone piece of art, yet they collectively form a cohesive whole that showcases the depth and breadth of Geerken's musical vision.
"Cassava Balls" is not just an album; it's a live recording that captures the raw energy and spontaneity of a live performance. The album's remastering ensures that the audio quality is top-notch, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the music. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Cassava Balls" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout