Morph

"Morph" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde realms of free jazz, presented by the masterful drummer Whit Dickey. Released on May 15, 2020, via ESP Disk', this album is a testament to Dickey's prowess and his collaborators' virtuosity, featuring the likes of Nate Wooley on trumpet and Matthew Shipp on piano. The album spans a generous 1 hour and 39 minutes, comprising 17 tracks that weave a complex tapestry of improvisational brilliance.

The album opens with "Blue Threads," setting the stage for the intricate interplay that unfolds throughout. Tracks like "Reckoning" and "Dice" showcase the raw energy and spontaneity that define free jazz, while "Helix" and "Firmament" delve into more contemplative and atmospheric territories. The "Noir" series of tracks adds a dark, moody contrast, highlighting the album's dynamic range.

"Morph" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and form, where each track is a unique entity contributing to a larger, cohesive whole. Whit Dickey's drumming is a standout feature, driving the music forward with a sense of urgency and precision. The interplay between Dickey, Wooley, and Shipp is a highlight, with each musician pushing the boundaries of their instruments and the genre itself.

The album's release date saw it appear just a week before "Expanding Light" on Dickey's Tao Forms label, underscoring his prolificacy and artistic depth. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Morph" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the best of contemporary free jazz.