Songs for Petra

'Songs for Petra' is a captivating album that showcases the remarkable collaboration between John Zorn and Jesse Harris, with the enchanting vocals of Petra Haden. This unique programme of songs, born out of their eight-year-long 'Song Project' that began in 2012, presents thirteen Zorn compositions paired with original lyrics by Jesse Harris. The result is a beautiful and distinctive sound that blends elements of avant-garde, free jazz, and experimental music.

Released on 21 August 2020 via the Tzadik label, 'Songs for Petra' is a 40-minute journey through a diverse range of emotions and themes, with Petra Haden's exceptional vocals bringing each track to life. From the haunting melodies of 'My Forbidden Tears' to the introspective 'All This Time', every song on this album is a testament to the creative genius of John Zorn and Jesse Harris.

With its eclectic mix of tracks, including 'Easy Time', 'Lost in the Rain', and 'Waiting for Christmas', 'Songs for Petra' is an album that will appeal to fans of experimental music and those looking to discover something new and exciting. John Zorn's innovative compositions, combined with Jesse Harris's poignant lyrics and Petra Haden's soaring vocals, make 'Songs for Petra' a truly unforgettable listening experience.

John Zorn is a boundary-defying American composer, saxophonist, and producer renowned for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. Resisting easy categorization, Zorn's work spans an impressive range of genres, including jazz, rock, classical, metal, and world music, often blending them in unexpected and innovative ways. A prolific artist, he has released a vast discography, including the monumental 11-album box set "The Book Beriah," which features 92 compositions. Zorn is also the founder of the Tzadik record label, a platform for experimental and avant-garde music, and has collaborated with numerous influential musicians. His groundbreaking ensemble Naked City is often cited as a precursor to the jazz-metal fusion genre. Zorn's compositions often incorporate unique structures, such as his celebrated "game" pieces like "Cobra," which guide large, diverse groups of musicians through intricate musical strategies. With a career that has spanned decades, John Zorn continues to be a catalyst for innovation and a major influence in contemporary music.