Teresa de Avilla

"Teresa de Avilla," the latest offering from avant-garde maestro John Zorn, is a captivating journey into the realms of experimental and free jazz. Released on March 19, 2021, via the esteemed Tzadik label, this album is the third and final installment in Zorn's trilogy inspired by spiritual figures, following "Nove Cantici per Francesco d'Assisi" and "Virtue (for Julian of Norwich)." Clocking in at a concise 40 minutes, "Teresa de Avilla" is a powerful exploration of sound and spirituality, featuring nine intricate compositions that showcase Zorn's signature avant-garde sensibilities.

The album opens with "Devotion," setting the tone for the spiritual and introspective journey that follows. Each track is a masterclass in experimental composition, with highlights including the rhythmic "Danza Estatica," the haunting "A Blessing of Tears," and the lyrical "The Sweetness of this Excessive Pain." The album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Bill Frisell, Julian Lage, and Gyan Riley, who bring Zorn's compositions to life with their virtuosic playing.

"Teresa de Avilla" is not just another album in John Zorn's extensive discography; it's a testament to his enduring creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of musical expression. Whether you're a longtime fan of Zorn's work or a newcomer to his avant-garde explorations, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. With its beautiful harmonies, driving rhythms, and stunning lyricism, "Teresa de Avilla" is a standout addition to any music collection.

John Zorn is a boundary-defying American composer, saxophonist, and producer renowned for his eclectic and experimental approach to music. Resisting easy categorization, Zorn's work spans an impressive range of genres, including jazz, rock, classical, metal, and world music, often blending them in unexpected and innovative ways. A prolific artist, he has released a vast discography, including the monumental 11-album box set "The Book Beriah," which features 92 compositions. Zorn is also the founder of the Tzadik record label, a platform for experimental and avant-garde music, and has collaborated with numerous influential musicians. His groundbreaking ensemble Naked City is often cited as a precursor to the jazz-metal fusion genre. Zorn's compositions often incorporate unique structures, such as his celebrated "game" pieces like "Cobra," which guide large, diverse groups of musicians through intricate musical strategies. With a career that has spanned decades, John Zorn continues to be a catalyst for innovation and a major influence in contemporary music.