Irène Schweizer - Andrew Cyrille - Irène Schweizer

Album Description

Irène Schweizer, a pioneering figure in free jazz and avant-garde music, teams up with legendary drummer Andrew Cyrille in this captivating live album, released on Intakt Records in 2012. This dynamic duo presents a compelling set of improvisational performances that showcase their extraordinary chemistry and individual virtuosity. The album spans a concise yet impactful 44 minutes, featuring six tracks that range from brief, intense interludes to extended explorations.

The album kicks off with "Smashing Napf," a high-energy piece that immediately draws the audience into the raw, unfiltered world of free jazz. "Soft Inside" offers a moment of respite, demonstrating the duo's ability to create intimacy and subtlety within their improvisations. The longest track, "From Stäfa to Willisau Via Music," is a testament to their collaborative prowess, weaving together complex rhythms and textures over its 13-minute duration.

"As Time Goes On" provides a glimpse into the duo's playful side, while "Fiction of the 13th Kind" delves into more abstract and experimental territories. The album concludes with "A Monkish Encore," a nod to the legendary Thelonious Monk, highlighting the duo's deep roots in jazz tradition while pushing its boundaries.

This album is a thrilling addition to the discographies of both Irène Schweizer and Andrew Cyrille, offering a unique perspective on their collaborative work. Fans of free jazz and avant-garde music will find much to appreciate in this powerful and engaging live recording.

2 juli 2012

2012 Intakt Records

About Irène Schweizer

Irène Schweizer (1941-2024) was a pioneering Swiss pianist and drummer, celebrated as one of the founders of European free jazz. Born in Schaffhausen, she began her musical journey playing boogie-woogie, blues, and ragtime before developing her distinctive, free-improvising style. Schweizer's unique approach combined unconventional piano techniques with percussive elements, clusters, and traditional pianism, creating a sound that was entirely her own. Throughout her career, she performed extensively, captivating audiences in renowned venues across Europe and the United States. Schweizer's influence on the jazz world is immense, and she is remembered as a visionary and a true icon of Swiss jazz.