Dive into the avant-garde world of John Zorn with "New Masada Quartet, Vol. 2," a captivating exploration of free jazz and experimental music released on January 20, 2023, under the Tzadik label. This 42-minute album features six intricate tracks: "Katzatz," "Idalah-Abal," "Rahtiel," "Jair," "Abidan," and "Ne'eman," each offering a unique journey through Zorn's distinctive musical landscape.
Led by John Zorn's dynamic saxophone and punctuated by his stop-and-start conducting, the album bursts with fiery solos, telepathic group interactions, heartfelt lyricism, and hypnotic rhythms. The ensemble, comprising Julian Lage on guitar, Jorge Roeder on bass, and Kenny Wollesen on drums, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
"New Masada Quartet, Vol. 2" is part of Zorn's ambitious 25-year project, Masada, which culminates in a collection of 92 compositions. This volume continues the tradition of reinterpreting Zorn's music, showcasing his versatility and innovative spirit. The album is a testament to Zorn's enduring influence in the realms of avant-garde and free jazz, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.