Laura Toxvaerd's debut album, "No. 1," is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music, released on February 5, 2007, via ILK Music. This concise yet impactful record spans just 27 minutes, featuring 15 tracks that showcase Toxvaerd's unique compositional approach. She employs geometric post-jazz and graphic notation to create a sonic landscape that is both innovative and engaging.
The album opens with "Spine Side" and closes with "Standard Outro," framing a journey through intricate compositions like "Tinsoldat, Pt. 1 & 2," "Inferno, Pt. 1 & 2," and "Popnummer, Pt. 1 & 2." Each track is a testament to Toxvaerd's ability to blend structured musical elements with spontaneous improvisation, characteristic of the free jazz genre.
"No. 1" is not just a collection of songs but a cohesive musical statement. Laura Toxvaerd's background in graphic notation adds a visual dimension to her work, with some of her scores set to be exhibited in New York. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the listening experience, making "No. 1" a standout release in the avant-garde jazz scene. The album was initially distributed with The Wire magazine, further cementing its status as a significant contribution to contemporary jazz.
Vinylscout