"Far Side" is a captivating live album by renowned jazz saxophonist and composer Roscoe Mitchell, featuring his ensemble The Note Factory. Recorded at the Stadtsaal in Burghausen, Germany, during the Burghausen Jazz Festival in March 2007, this ECM Records release captures a dynamic and adventurous performance that showcases Mitchell's innovative approach to free jazz and avant-garde music.
The album, released on November 5, 2010, comprises four extended tracks that span a total duration of one hour and five minutes. "Far Side" opens with the title track, a sprawling 30-minute piece that seamlessly blends into "Cards" and then returns to "Far Side," demonstrating Mitchell's mastery of composition and improvisation. The other tracks, "Quintet 2007 A for Eight" and "Trio Four For Eight," further highlight the ensemble's uncompromising exploration of sound and texture.
"Far Side" is the second ECM disc from Mitchell's Note Factory ensemble, following their 1999 release "Nine to Get Ready." This album is a testament to Mitchell's vision of creating an ensemble of improvising musicians with an orchestral range, pushing the boundaries of jazz and avant-garde music. The performance at Burghausen offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the creative process of one of jazz's most influential figures, making "Far Side" a compelling addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.
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