In the quietude of his home studio, during the pandemic, legendary jazz composer Roscoe Mitchell crafted "Dots - Pieces for Percussion and Woodwinds," a mesmerizing collection of 19 newly recorded compositions. This album, released on September 24, 2021, under Wide Hive Records, is a testament to Mitchell's artistic prowess and his ability to create music that is both introspective and expansive. The album spans a variety of genres, including free jazz, avant-garde, and jazz, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
"Dots" showcases Roscoe Mitchell's mastery of percussion and woodwinds, with the artist playing a wide array of instruments, including saxophone, horns, and his own unique percussion array. The album's 19 tracks, such as "Slow Ride Two," "Glide And Run," and "Vast Horizons," are characterized by articulate precision and hauntingly interesting atmospheres. Mitchell's use of overdubbing on seven of the pieces adds depth and complexity to the compositions, creating a layered and immersive soundscape.
The album's duration of one hour and four minutes allows for a full immersion into Mitchell's sonic world, where each track builds upon the last, creating a cohesive and engaging narrative. Whether you're a longtime fan of Roscoe Mitchell or a newcomer to his work, "Dots - Pieces for Percussion and Woodwinds" offers a captivating exploration of sound and rhythm that is sure to resonate with jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike.