"Live At Willimantic Records" is a captivating live album that marks the American debut of Lao Dan, a rising star in the world of free jazz and avant-garde music from China. Recorded in April 2018 at Willimantic Records in Connecticut, this album captures a unique collaboration between Lao Dan and renowned free-jazz musicians Paul Flaherty on saxophones, Damon Smith on double bass, and Randall Colbourne on drums and percussion.
Lao Dan's distinctive voice on the bamboo flute, suona, and alto saxophone shines throughout the album's four extended tracks: "Noise & Light," "Winter Dawn," "Long Shadows," and "Relentless Still." Each composition offers a deep dive into the spontaneous and improvisational spirit of free jazz, with the musicians pushing the boundaries of their instruments and the genre itself.
The album, released on December 6, 2019, under the Family Vineyard label, is a testament to the power of live performance and the magic that happens when kindred musical spirits come together. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, "Live At Willimantic Records" is an essential listen for fans of avant-garde and free jazz, showcasing the raw and unfiltered energy of a live performance.