Still Life With Commentator

Album Description

"Still Life With Commentator" is a groundbreaking collaborative studio album by American jazz pianist Vijay Iyer and hip-hop artist Mike Ladd, released in 2007 on Savoy Jazz. This critically acclaimed oratorio delves into the realms of TV news, the blogosphere, and life during wartime, offering a unique blend of free jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. The album features a stellar lineup of contributors, including Pamela Z, Guillermo E. Brown, Liberty Ellman, Okkyung Lee, Palina Jonsdottir, and Masayasu Nakanishi, with production handled by Scotty Hard.

With a runtime of approximately one hour and five minutes, "Still Life With Commentator" comprises 17 tracks that seamlessly weave together Iyer's virtuosic piano playing and Ladd's distinctive, highbrow hip-hop delivery. The album's title track, "Infogee Rhapsody," sets the stage for a thought-provoking exploration of media and society, while tracks like "Holocaust Blog" and "The Last Atrocity" tackle heavier subjects with a blend of lyricism and electronic beats. Throughout the album, Iyer's compositional prowess and Ladd's unique vocal style create a captivating sonic landscape that challenges listeners and pushes the boundaries of both jazz and hip-hop.

"Still Life With Commentator" showcases Vijay Iyer's versatility as a composer and pianist, further cementing his status as a significant figure in the world of contemporary jazz. The album's innovative fusion of genres and thought-provoking themes make it a standout release in Iyer's discography and a testament to the power of cross-genre collaboration. Whether you're a fan of jazz, hip-hop, or electronic music, "Still Life With Commentator" offers a fresh and engaging listening experience that is sure to captivate and inspire.

30 januari 2007

℗ 2007 Savoy Records, a division of Concord Music Group, Inc.

About Vijay Iyer

Vijay Iyer is a multifaceted jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader based in New York City, renowned for his rhythmic ingenuity and wide-ranging influences. With a career spanning over three decades, Iyer has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a MacArthur Fellowship and multiple Jazz Artist of the Year titles from DownBeat magazine. His work extends beyond traditional jazz, incorporating elements of free jazz and collaborating with artists across various genres, such as his work with Yo-Yo Ma's Silk Road Ensemble. Iyer's discography, particularly his releases on ECM Records like "Uneasy" and "Mutations," showcases his exceptional talent and innovative approach to improvisational jazz. Beyond his musical prowess, Iyer is also a professor at Harvard University, where he holds appointments in the departments of music and African American studies, reflecting his deep commitment to both his art and academic exploration.