Testimony

Album Description

"Testimony" is a captivating album by the renowned avant-garde jazz bassist and composer William Parker, released on September 13, 2011, under the independent label Centering Records. This album is a testament to Parker's virtuosity and his deep connection to the free jazz and hard bop genres, offering a rich and immersive experience for any jazz enthusiast.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, "Testimony" features five extended compositions, each showcasing Parker's exceptional skill on the double bass and his ability to create intricate, engaging narratives through music. The album opens with "Sonic Animation," a piece that immediately draws the listener into a world of complex rhythms and textures. "Testimony (for Beb Guerin)" is a heartfelt dedication to the late bassist Beb Guerin, blending raw emotion with technical prowess. "Light #3" continues the journey with a luminous, almost ethereal quality, while "Dedication (for Charles Clark & Albert Stinson)" pays homage to two influential figures in Parker's life. The album concludes with "The Second Set," a powerful and dynamic finale that encapsulates the essence of Parker's artistry.

Recorded in high-quality 16-Bit/44.1 kHz Stereo, "Testimony" ensures that every nuance of Parker's performance is captured with clarity and precision. This album is not just a collection of songs but a profound exploration of sound, memory, and dedication, reflecting Parker's deep roots in the jazz tradition and his innovative approach to composition and performance. Whether you're a longtime fan of William Parker or a newcomer to his work, "Testimony" offers a compelling and rewarding listening experience.

13 september 2011

2011 Centering Records

About William Parker

William Parker is a pioneering figure in the world of jazz, renowned for his mastery of the double bass and his innovative approach to composition and improvisation. Born in 1932, Parker emerged from the vibrant underground loft scene in New York City during the late 1970s and early 1980s, a period that fostered a self-supporting, artist-run community. His extensive discography spans multiple genres, including free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop, reflecting his versatility and creative depth. Parker is one of the few jazz bassists who regularly plays arco and is known for his proficiency on a variety of instruments from around the world, such as the West African kora, shakuhachi, double reeds, tuba, donson ngoni, and gembri. His music is a testament to his vision of 'universal tonality,' a concept that celebrates the potential for master musicians from any part of the world to collaborate and create harmonious sounds. Beyond his musical prowess, Parker is also a respected composer, continually pushing the boundaries of jazz and inspiring generations of musicians.