"Saturnian," released on March 9, 2010, is a captivating solo saxophone album by the legendary David S. Ware, marking his return to live performance after a significant health challenge. This album, the first in a series of solo saxophone works, showcases Ware's mastery of the instrument across three distinct pieces: "Methone," "Pallene," and "Anthe." Each track is named after one of Saturn's moons, reflecting Ware's cosmic inspiration and his unique approach to composition.
Recorded live in October 2009, "Saturnian" offers an intimate glimpse into Ware's artistic vision, with each piece performed on a different saxophone: saxello, stritch, and tenor, respectively. The album spans a total of 38 minutes, with each track pushing the boundaries of free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop genres. Ware's playing is as introspective as it is explosive, demonstrating his signature raw power and spiritual depth.
The album is a testament to Ware's resilience and artistic evolution, capturing a pivotal moment in his career. "Saturnian" is a powerful exploration of sound and space, inviting listeners to engage with the raw, unfiltered expression of one of jazz's most innovative and influential figures. The album was released under AUM Fidelity, a label known for its commitment to avant-garde and experimental music.