"Live at Okuden" is a captivating live double album by the avant-garde jazz trio Jungle, featuring the dynamic interplay between alto saxophonist Mat Walerian, the virtuoso pianist Matthew Shipp, and the masterful drummer Hamid Drake. Recorded live at the Okuden Music Concert Series in November 2012, this album was released in April 2016 on the esteemed Brooklyn-based avant-garde label ESP-Disk'.
The album is a testament to the spontaneous and improvisational genius of its performers, capturing a raw and unfiltered musical conversation that spans over an hour and thirty-nine minutes. Mat Walerian's versatile woodwind skills, Matthew Shipp's intricate and often melancholic piano work, and Hamid Drake's percussive prowess come together to create a sonic landscape that is both challenging and rewarding. The thirteen tracks, including standout pieces like "Shrine," "Teleport," and "Sit Back, Relax and Watch," showcase the trio's ability to push the boundaries of free jazz and avant-garde music.
Mat Walerian, known for his unique blend of classical chamber music, jazz classics, and Asian scales, brings his distinctive style to the forefront. His collaboration with Matthew Shipp, often hailed as the supreme jazz pianist of his generation, results in a rich tapestry of sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition. The addition of Hamid Drake, a seasoned drummer in the world of improvised music, elevates the album to new heights, making "Live at Okuden" a standout release in the genre.
This album is not just a collection of live performances but a vivid documentation of a musical event that celebrates the art of improvisation and the power of live jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Live at Okuden" offers a compelling journey into the world of avant-garde jazz, showcasing the talents of Mat Walerian, Matthew Shipp, and Hamid Drake in a setting that is as dynamic as it is intimate.
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