Six Situations

Album Description

"Six Situations," released on November 6, 1983, is a captivating exploration into the avant-garde and free jazz realms by the legendary Joe McPhee. This album, featuring six intricate compositions, showcases McPhee's mastery of the saxophone and his innovative approach to jazz. With a runtime of 70 minutes, "Six Situations" offers an immersive experience, blending complex improvisations with a deep sense of musical storytelling.

The album opens with "The Diagonal of Personal Ecstasy," setting the tone for the avant-garde journey that follows. Tracks like "Blue Trees in Wind" and "Alternate Diagonals" highlight McPhee's ability to weave intricate melodies and rhythms, while "Red and Green Alternatives" and "The Blood of Martyr" delve into more experimental territories. The album concludes with "Green Crossing Greens," a piece that ties together the diverse elements explored throughout the record.

Recorded under the NotTwo label, "Six Situations" is a testament to McPhee's enduring influence in the jazz world. The album's unique blend of free jazz and avant-garde elements makes it a standout release in McPhee's discography, offering both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers a rich and engaging listening experience.

6 november 1983

About Joe Mcphee

Joe McPhee is a pioneering American musician who has been a vital force in the creative and free jazz worlds since the late 1960s. Born and raised in New York, McPhee is a multi-instrumentalist whose music is deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscapes of his time. His seminal 1971 album "Nation Time" is a powerful testament to the black cultural nationalist movement, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with profound social commentary. McPhee's style is as diverse as it is dynamic, drawing influences from the ecstatic improvisations of Coltrane, the complex melodies of Dolphy, and the rich traditions of funk and blues. His tone on the trumpet and saxophone ranges from harsh, wailing cries to precise, lyrical phrases, making him a versatile and captivating performer. Even at 85, McPhee continues to push boundaries, delivering knockout performances that blend spoken word with sparse, evocative instrumentation. His extensive discography, including works like "Tales Out Of Time" and "Black Magic Man," offers a journey through six decades of innovative and influential music.