Maroon Cloud

Album Description

"Maroon Cloud" is an eight-part suite by the celebrated flutist and composer Nicole Mitchell, released on August 20, 2018, under FPE Records. This captivating album is a testament to the power of human imagination, blending the boundaries of free jazz, avant-garde, and traditional jazz into a seamless, fluid experience.

Nicole Mitchell's distinctive, commanding tone and stealthy phrasing are on full display throughout the album's 65-minute duration. Her seamless transitions from singing to spoken word add a unique layer to the music, making "Maroon Cloud" a standout piece in her discography. The album features eight tracks, including standout pieces like "Warm Dark Realness," "Vodou Spacetime Kettle," and "No One Can Stop Us," each offering a different facet of Mitchell's artistic vision.

As a follow-up to her 2017 album "Mandorla Awakening II: Emerging Worlds," "Maroon Cloud" continues to push the boundaries of jazz, showcasing Mitchell's growth as an artist and her commitment to exploring new sonic territories. The album is a must-listen for fans of innovative jazz and those seeking to expand their musical horizons. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Nicole Mitchell or new to her work, "Maroon Cloud" promises an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the realms of free jazz and avant-garde composition.

20 augustus 2018

℗ 2018 FPE Records

About Nicole Mitchell

Nicole Mitchell is a dynamic and innovative figure in the world of jazz, renowned for her virtuosity on the flute and her pioneering spirit as a composer and bandleader. Born and raised in Michigan, Mitchell's music is deeply rooted in African American culture, seamlessly blending jazz and improvisational elements to create a unique and captivating sound. As the founder of several influential ensembles, including the Black Earth Ensemble and Black Earth Strings, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of free jazz and avant-garde music. Mitchell's work is not just about creating music; it's about telling stories and celebrating heritage. Her collaborations, such as the album with Malian kora player Ballaké Sissoko, showcase her ability to bridge musical traditions and create transcendent experiences. Beyond her performances, Mitchell is also a dedicated educator, currently serving as a DPhil student at the University of Pittsburgh, where she continues to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether on stage or in the classroom, Nicole Mitchell's passion and creativity make her a standout artist in the jazz world.