Memoria

"Memoria" is a captivating exploration of modern improvisation, featuring the masterful compositions of John Zorn and the production prowess of Bill Laswell. Released on May 19, 2023, via Tzadik, this avant-garde jazz album is a heartfelt tribute to three legendary figures in the world of free jazz: Pharoah Sanders, Milford Graves, and Wayne Shorter. Each track is a dedicated performance, paying homage to these iconic musicians with a blend of experimental and free jazz elements.

The album spans a concise yet impactful 37 minutes, divided into three tracks, each named after the respective jazz legend they honor. The first track, dedicated to Pharoah Sanders, stretches out to nearly 15 minutes, allowing for a deep dive into the intricate and soulful improvisations that Sanders is known for. The second track pays tribute to Milford Graves, followed by a final piece honoring Wayne Shorter. Each performance is a testament to the enduring influence of these jazz pioneers, reinterpreted through the lens of Zorn and Laswell's unique artistic vision.

"Memoria" is a powerful collection that showcases the depth and breadth of avant-garde and free jazz, making it a standout release in the genre. Fans of experimental music and jazz aficionados alike will find much to appreciate in this thoughtfully curated album.

John Zorn is a boundary-defying American composer, saxophonist, and producer renowned for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. Resisting easy categorization, Zorn's work spans an impressive range of genres, including jazz, rock, classical, metal, and world music, often blending them in unexpected and innovative ways. A prolific artist, he has released a vast discography, including the monumental 11-album box set "The Book Beriah," which features 92 compositions. Zorn is also the founder of the Tzadik record label, a platform for experimental and avant-garde music, and has collaborated with numerous influential musicians. His groundbreaking ensemble Naked City is often cited as a precursor to the jazz-metal fusion genre. Zorn's compositions often incorporate unique structures, such as his celebrated "game" pieces like "Cobra," which guide large, diverse groups of musicians through intricate musical strategies. With a career that has spanned decades, John Zorn continues to be a catalyst for innovation and a major influence in contemporary music.