No Difference

Album Description

"No Difference" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music, presented by the virtuoso Gordon Grdina. Released in 2015 under the Songlines label, this album is a testament to Grdina's unique approach to guitar and oud, blending Middle Eastern influences with the spontaneity of jazz improvisation. Collaborating with bassist Mark Helias, drummer Kenton Loewen, and saxophonist Tony Malaby, Grdina weaves a tapestry of sounds that range from the meditative duets of "Hope in Being" and "Fast Times" to the electric intensity of "The Throes."

The album's nine tracks, spanning 58 minutes, showcase Grdina's compositional prowess and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz. From the haunting melodies of "Nayeli Joon" to the frenetic energy of "Fierce Point," each piece offers a distinct sonic experience. Grdina's background, which includes collaborations with notable artists like Mats Gustafsson and Jerry Granelli, shines through in the album's innovative and unpredictable nature. "No Difference" is not just an album; it's a journey into the depths of improvisational music, where tradition meets innovation in a seamless blend of cultures and styles.

1 juni 2015

2015 Songlines

About Gordon Grdina

Gordon Grdina is a Juno Award-winning guitarist and oud player based in Vancouver, renowned for his unique fusion of mainstream jazz, free improvisation, and Arabic classical music. A protégé of jazz legend Gary Peacock, Grdina has made a name for himself on both the Vancouver and New York jazz scenes, leading several influential bands and collaborating with esteemed musicians like Paul Motian and Oscar Noriega. His discography is a testament to his versatility, spanning projects such as The Marrow, which pays homage to Arabic maqam and Persian dastgah traditions, and the Gordon Grdina Quartet, which delves into avant-garde jazz explorations. Grdina's music is not just about the notes; it's about the journey, the cultural exchange, and the constant push of musical boundaries. Whether he's playing guitar or oud, Grdina's performances are always an immersive experience, blending intricate melodies with spontaneous improvisations.