Complicité

Marilyn Crispell's 'Complicité' is a captivating album that showcases her exceptional pianistic skills, released on 12 July 2001 by Les Disques Victo. This 55-minute masterpiece is a testament to her innovative approach to free jazz, featuring eight intricate tracks, including 'Prayer', 'Triplosm, Pt. I', and 'Gesture Without Plot'. Recorded live at the Festival International de Musique Actuelle de Victoriaville in Quebec, Canada, on 22 May 2000, 'Complicité' is part of a three-CD set that also features performances by pianist Paul Plimley and saxophonist John Oswald, as well as the renowned pianist Cecil Taylor.

Marilyn Crispell's performance on 'Complicité' is characterised by her unique ability to meander blissfully and chaotically, creating a vision of measured abandon. The album's eight tracks demonstrate her mastery of free jazz, blending floating bits of structure and melody with unbridled freedom. With 'Complicité', Marilyn Crispell invites listeners to experience the unbridled energy and creativity of her live performance, making this album an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

Marilyn Crispell is a formidable figure in the world of jazz, renowned for her powerful and distinctive approach to the piano. Born in Philadelphia in 1947, Crispell's journey into jazz was sparked by the innovative sounds of John Coltrane and Cecil Taylor. Her playing is often described as an "active volcano," characterized by a unique use of space and a fearless embrace of free jazz. Crispell's extensive work as a soloist and bandleader, coupled with her collaborations with legendary figures like saxophonist Anthony Braxton, has cemented her status as one of the most versatile and compelling pianists of her generation. Whether performing solo or with ensembles, Crispell's music is a testament to her adventurous spirit and deep musicality.