Ten Freedom Summers

Album Description

"Ten Freedom Summers" is a monumental work by legendary jazz composer and trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith, released in 2012 on Cuneiform Records. Spanning four discs and clocking in at over four and a half hours, this epic album is a profound exploration of the American Civil Rights Movement, composed over nearly three and a half decades. The album consists of 19 intricate compositions, each named after significant events, figures, and milestones from the struggle for racial equality in the United States.

Smith's unique approach to free jazz and avant-garde music is on full display throughout "Ten Freedom Summers." The album features a large ensemble, but Smith's orchestration defies conventional jazz norms, creating a rich and complex sonic landscape. The compositions pay tribute to iconic moments such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the work of Martin Luther King, Jr., and the historic Brown vs. Board of Education case, as well as lesser-known but equally significant events like the Freedom Summer voter registration efforts and the story of the Freedom Riders.

"Ten Freedom Summers" is not just an album; it's a comprehensive musical journey through a pivotal era in American history. Wadada Leo Smith's masterful compositions and performances bring immense gravitas to the subject matter, making this a profound and thought-provoking listening experience. The album is a testament to Smith's enduring legacy as a composer and his commitment to addressing social and political issues through his music. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a history enthusiast, "Ten Freedom Summers" offers a unique and captivating perspective on the Civil Rights Movement.

1 januari 2012

2012 Cuneiform Records

About Wadada Leo Smith

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.