"How to Turn the Moon" is a captivating duet album by renowned pianists Angelica Sanchez and Marilyn Crispell, released on October 2, 2020, via Pyroclastic Records. This 50-minute journey through free jazz and avant-garde territories is a testament to the deep wells of experience that both musicians bring to the table. Recorded at Nevessa Production in Woodstock, New York, the album features 10 original tracks that showcase the unique chemistry and shared language developed by Sanchez and Crispell during their collaborative sessions.
The album opens with "Lobe of the Fly," setting the stage for an exploration of intricate rhythms and harmonies. "Ancient Dream" and "Calyces of Held" delve into the pianists' improvisational prowess, while "Space Junk" and "Fires in Space" offer a cosmic perspective, reflecting the album's ethereal and otherworldly qualities. Tracks like "Windfall Light" and "Rain in Web" demonstrate the duo's ability to create atmospheric soundscapes, while "Twisted Roots" and "Sullivan’s Universe" highlight their penchant for complex, intertwining melodies.
Throughout "How to Turn the Moon," Sanchez and Crispell's playing is marked by a special, luminous quality that sets this album apart. Their interplay is both intuitive and innovative, resulting in a collection of pieces that are as engaging as they are thought-provoking. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the power of improvisation and the beauty of shared musical vision.