I'm Just Say'n

Album Description

At 85, legendary saxophonist, trumpeter, and poet Joe McPhee continues to push the boundaries of free jazz and avant-garde music with his latest offering, "I'm Just Say'n." Released on January 31, 2025, via Smalltown Supersound, this 40-minute album is a testament to McPhee's enduring creativity and innovation. With a career spanning over five decades, McPhee brings his wealth of experience and unique perspective to this captivating collection of 11 tracks.

"I'm Just Say'n" is a powerful blend of spoken word improvisation and sparse yet electrifying brass, courtesy of the legendary Mats Gustafsson. The album opens with the brief, intriguing "Short Pieces," setting the stage for the eclectic journey that follows. Tracks like "When I Grow Up" and "They Both Could Fly" showcase McPhee's signature free jazz style, while pieces like "NYC Nostalgia Redux" and "The Dream Book" offer a more introspective and poetic approach. The album's title track, "I'm Just Say'n," is a standout, highlighting McPhee's distinctive voice and lyrical prowess.

McPhee's background in the 1960s Manhattan free jazz scene is evident throughout the album, with each track offering a unique blend of improvisation, experimentation, and raw musical expression. "I'm Just Say'n" is not just an album; it's a bold statement from a true jazz innovator, proving that age is no barrier to artistic evolution. Whether you're a longtime fan of Joe McPhee or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

31 januari 2025

2025 Smalltown Supersound / Le Jazz Non

About Joe Mcphee

Joe McPhee is a pioneering American musician who has been a vital force in the creative and free jazz worlds since the late 1960s. Born and raised in New York, McPhee is a multi-instrumentalist whose music is deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscapes of his time. His seminal 1971 album "Nation Time" is a powerful testament to the black cultural nationalist movement, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with profound social commentary. McPhee's style is as diverse as it is dynamic, drawing influences from the ecstatic improvisations of Coltrane, the complex melodies of Dolphy, and the rich traditions of funk and blues. His tone on the trumpet and saxophone ranges from harsh, wailing cries to precise, lyrical phrases, making him a versatile and captivating performer. Even at 85, McPhee continues to push boundaries, delivering knockout performances that blend spoken word with sparse, evocative instrumentation. His extensive discography, including works like "Tales Out Of Time" and "Black Magic Man," offers a journey through six decades of innovative and influential music.