Playing For Friends on 5th Street

Album Description

"Playing For Friends on 5th Street" captures the legendary Derek Bailey in an intimate live setting, offering a rare glimpse into the world of free jazz and avant-garde improvisation. Recorded on December 29, 2001, at the iconic Downtown Music Gallery in New York City, this DVD showcases Bailey's masterful guitar playing in a cozy, informal concert for around 40 friends and fans. The album features seven tracks of spontaneous, unscripted performances, totaling 42 minutes of pure, unadulterated musical exploration.

Directed by Robert O'Haire, the DVD's casual camera movements and minimal post-production efforts create an authentic, intimate atmosphere, as if the viewer is part of the small, friendly circle gathered to enjoy Bailey's unique musical language. The album is dedicated to the late Irving Stone and his wife Stephanie, longtime supporters of the NYC avant-garde scene, and serves as a tribute to the vibrant community surrounding the Downtown Music Gallery.

"Playing For Friends on 5th Street" is a testament to Derek Bailey's innovative approach to guitar playing and his significant contributions to the world of free improvisation. This release is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a unique opportunity to experience Bailey's genius in an intimate, live setting. The DVD is presented in NTSC format and is available in all regions.

1 januari 2004

2004 Derek Bailey, straw2gold pictures

About Derek Bailey

Derek Bailey, born in Sheffield in 1930, was a pioneering British guitarist renowned for his groundbreaking work in free improvisation. Emerging from the trad-jazz scene, Bailey's career took a dramatic turn in the 1960s when he shifted his focus to experimental and avant-garde music. His innovative approach to the guitar, which he virtually reinvented, set him apart as one of the most influential and adventurous musicians of his time. Bailey's music was entirely based on improvisation, operating outside any pre-existing idiom, and his performances were always unique and unpredictable. Before his untimely death in 2005, Bailey left an indelible mark on the world of experimental music, inspiring countless musicians with his fearless exploration of sound and technique.