Tenor & Fallen Angels

"Tenor & Fallen Angels" is a captivating journey into the avant-garde jazz realm, masterfully crafted by the legendary Joe McPhee. Released on January 1, 2000, under the hatOLOGY label, this album is a testament to McPhee's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the free jazz genre. Spanning a concise yet impactful 59 minutes, the album features five tracks that showcase McPhee's virtuosity on the tenor saxophone and his penchant for pushing musical boundaries.

The album opens with "Knox," a piece that immediately draws the listener in with its intricate melodies and improvisational flair. "Good-Bye Tom B." follows, offering a poignant and reflective moment that highlights McPhee's ability to convey deep emotion through his music. "Sweet Dragon" continues the exploration of avant-garde jazz, with its complex rhythms and harmonies that challenge and engage the listener. "Tenor" is a showcase of McPhee's technical prowess, while "Fallen Angels" brings the album to a close with a haunting and introspective finale.

McPhee's collaborations with other notable artists, such as Phill Niblock and Roscoe Mitchell, underscore his influence and reputation within the jazz community. "Tenor & Fallen Angels" is a must-explore for fans of free jazz and avant-garde music, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights Joe McPhee's unique artistic vision.

Joe McPhee is a pioneering American musician who has been a vital force in the creative and free jazz worlds since the late 1960s. Born and raised in New York, McPhee is a multi-instrumentalist whose music is deeply rooted in the cultural and political landscapes of his time. His seminal 1971 album "Nation Time" is a powerful testament to the black cultural nationalist movement, showcasing his ability to blend raw emotion with profound social commentary. McPhee's style is as diverse as it is dynamic, drawing influences from the ecstatic improvisations of Coltrane, the complex melodies of Dolphy, and the rich traditions of funk and blues. His tone on the trumpet and saxophone ranges from harsh, wailing cries to precise, lyrical phrases, making him a versatile and captivating performer. Even at 85, McPhee continues to push boundaries, delivering knockout performances that blend spoken word with sparse, evocative instrumentation. His extensive discography, including works like "Tales Out Of Time" and "Black Magic Man," offers a journey through six decades of innovative and influential music.