Circular Temple

Dive into the avant-garde jazz scene of the early 1990s with Matthew Shipp's "Circular Temple," a seminal work now reissued by ESP Disk'. Originally recorded in 1990 and first released on the tiny label Quinton Records, this album marks several firsts for the renowned pianist. It was his debut CD release, his first piano trio album, and the inaugural recording featuring his long-standing collaborations with bassist William Parker and drummer Whit Dickey. The album's reissue in 1994 by Infinite Zero, a label founded by Henry Rollins and Rick Rubin, further cemented its place in jazz history.

"Circular Temple" is a deep exploration into the jazz avant-garde, showcasing Shipp's unique piano style alongside the intricate interplay between Parker and Dickey. The album's four tracks, each titled "Circular Temple" with numerical distinctions, offer a cohesive journey through free jazz and nu jazz territories. The reissue, released on September 15, 2023, includes remastered tracks, ensuring that both new and veteran fans can experience the album in its best possible quality.

The album's standout features include Shipp's orchestral overlays, Parker's sawing bass lines, and Dickey's broad, concussive drumming. Each track builds on the others, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, "Circular Temple" offers a compelling introduction to the innovative and boundary-pushing work of Matthew Shipp and his trio.