String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2

Dive into the avant-garde world of Wadada Leo Smith with his captivating release, "String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2." This album, released on June 17, 2022, under TUM Records, is a testament to Smith's mastery as a composer for strings. Spanning 47 minutes, this collection of free jazz and avant-garde compositions is a journey through innovative soundscapes and intricate musical narratives.

The album features four distinct movements, each named after influential figures: "Ulysses Simpson Kay," "Thomas Jefferson Anderson, Jr.," "Hale Smith," and "George Theophilus Walker." These titles hint at the rich cultural and historical context that informs Smith's music. The second string quartet is a standalone piece that complements the first, offering a cohesive yet diverse listening experience.

"String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2" is part of a larger project that includes 12 string quartets, showcasing Wadada Leo Smith's versatility and depth as a composer. The full collection, released as a box set with seven CDs and a 72-page booklet, celebrates Smith's 80th birthday and his significant contributions to the world of jazz and avant-garde music. The box set also includes "Emerald Duets," a series of drum duets that highlight Smith's collaborative spirit and musical prowess.

This album is not just a collection of compositions but a profound exploration of sound, history, and culture. Wadada Leo Smith's "String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2" is a standout release that will captivate both jazz enthusiasts and those new to the genre, offering a unique and enriching listening experience.

Wadada Leo Smith is a pioneering figure in the world of creative music, renowned for his innovative approach to jazz and his profound compositions. As a trumpeter, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, Smith's work is characterized by its structural inventiveness and emotional depth. Born and raised in the United States, Smith's musical journey began in his high school band, where he discovered his passion for composition. His contributions to the avant-garde and free jazz genres have been groundbreaking, earning him recognition as a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2013 for his monumental work "Ten Freedom Summers." Smith's music is not just about the notes; it's a testament to his humanistic and political beliefs, often reflecting his deep commitment to social and collective action. Whether through his expressive trumpet work or his thoughtful compositions, Wadada Leo Smith continues to inspire and challenge audiences with his unique vision and unwavering dedication to his art.