Spring

Album Description

"Spring," released in 2014 on Intakt Records, is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde music by the renowned Swiss pianist and composer Irène Schweizer. This album, featuring a collaboration with Jürg Wickihalder, is a testament to Schweizer's innovative approach to improvisation and her deep commitment to the avant-garde tradition.

The album spans 52 minutes and includes 12 tracks, each offering a unique sonic journey. From the opening piece "Red Light Crossing Friends" to the closing "Just a Gigolo," Schweizer and Wickihalder delve into a world of experimental sounds and textures. The album's title track, "Spring," along with other standouts like "Ugly Beauty" and "6243D," showcase Schweizer's mastery of the piano and her ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz.

Irène Schweizer is known for her powerful and expressive performances, often incorporating elements of political and social commentary into her music. Her work with Louis Moholo, for instance, has been noted for its aesthetic and political protest against apartheid in South Africa. This album continues her legacy of blending musical innovation with social consciousness.

"Spring" is a must-listen for fans of free jazz and avant-garde music, offering a rich and dynamic listening experience. The album's intricate compositions and improvisational flair make it a standout in Schweizer's discography and a significant contribution to the genre.

15 sep 2014

2014 Intakt Records

About Irène Schweizer

Irène Schweizer (1941-2024) was a pioneering Swiss pianist and drummer, celebrated as one of the founders of European free jazz. Born in Schaffhausen, she began her musical journey playing boogie-woogie, blues, and ragtime before developing her distinctive, free-improvising style. Schweizer's unique approach combined unconventional piano techniques with percussive elements, clusters, and traditional pianism, creating a sound that was entirely her own. Throughout her career, she performed extensively, captivating audiences in renowned venues across Europe and the United States. Schweizer's influence on the jazz world is immense, and she is remembered as a visionary and a true icon of Swiss jazz.