Dive into the world of innovative jazz with Vijay Iyer's "Reimagining," a 2005 masterpiece that showcases the pianist's unique blend of free jazz and traditional jazz elements. This album, originally released on the Savoy label, features nine original compositions by Iyer, each offering a glimpse into his authoritative yet inquisitive approach to music. The quartet, featuring Rudresh Mahanthappa on alto sax, Stephan Crump on bass, and Marcus Gilmore on drums, delivers a performance that is both intricate and gripping.
"Reimagining" is not just a collection of songs; it's a testament to Iyer's maturity and his ability to further the jazz tradition. The album opens with "Revolutions" and closes with a radical solo piano version of John Lennon's "Imagine," providing a diverse range of musical experiences. Tracks like "Inertia" and "Infogee's Cakewalk" highlight Iyer's experimentation with rhythmic techniques, harmony, and orchestration, making each song a unique journey in itself.
The album's production is top-notch, with recording by Mike Marciano, mixing by Scott Harding, and mastering by Mike Fossenkemper. The cover photography by Pooja Bakri adds a visual dimension to the auditory experience, making "Reimagining" a complete package for any jazz enthusiast.
With "Reimagining," Vijay Iyer solidifies his position as a leading figure in contemporary jazz, balancing rapturous emotion and knotty intellect, melodic flow, and rhythmic heft. Whether you're a long-time fan of Iyer's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout