Lungta

"Lungta," the debut album by Philippe Côté, is a captivating exploration of orchestration for wind instruments, drawing inspiration from the Tibetan concept of the windhorse. Released on April 2, 2016, under the Mythology label, this avant-garde masterpiece features a stellar lineup, including alto saxophonist David Binney, Philippe Côté on tenor saxophone, Steve Amirault on piano, Fraser Hollins on bass, and Martin Auguste on drums, among others. The album showcases the rich subtlety of wind instrumentation, directed by David Russell Martin, and is a testament to Côté's decade-long journey in crafting this grand, sweeping accomplishment.

The 14-track album, spanning 75 minutes, delves into a variety of compositions, from the evocative "Soleil levant" to the introspective "A Tiny Prayer to Father Time," and the dynamic "Tail of the Tiger." Each piece is a testament to Côté's compositional prowess and the ensemble's virtuosity. The album was launched with a concert featuring David Binney and the Orchestre national de jazz de Montréal, further cementing its place in the jazz community. "Lungta" has garnered critical acclaim, with reviews in The New York City Jazz Record and the Ottawa Citizen, highlighting its significance in the jazz landscape of 2016. This album is a compelling introduction to Philippe Côté's unique voice in the world of avant-garde jazz, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.