"On Common Ground" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music, brought to life by the virtuosic trio of Mike Sopko, Bill Laswell, and Tyshawn Sorey. Released on October 2, 2020, via M.O.D. Reloaded, this album is a testament to the enduring power of the guitar/bass/drums trio, a format that has historically served as a launchpad for musical innovation.
Mike Sopko, a guitarist known for his boundary-pushing work with Los Lobos and Dosh, delivers a mesmerizing performance that showcases his unique ability to blend primal power with tonal subtlety. His guitar work is complemented perfectly by the muscular authority of Bill Laswell's bass, which transmutes industrial sounds into a musical language all its own. Drummer Tyshawn Sorey rounds out the trio with his intricate and dynamic percussion, creating a sonic landscape that is both complex and deeply engaging.
The album's five tracks—"Upward Collapse," "Oracle," "Parascience," "Incantation," and "Equation"—are a testament to the telepathic-like organic connection between the three musicians. Each piece feels improvised yet meticulously crafted, with the musicians pushing the boundaries of their respective instruments and the genre itself. The result is a 54-minute journey through the frontiers of free jazz and avant-garde music, where tradition meets innovation in a thrilling display of musical prowess.
"On Common Ground" is not just an album; it's a sonic experience that demands to be heard and felt. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a curious newcomer, this album offers a unique and exhilarating listening experience that showcases the best of what free jazz and avant-garde music have to offer.
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