The Big Picture

Fred Frith, the renowned English guitarist and composer, teams up with the Swiss-based ARTE Quartett for "The Big Picture," an avant-garde masterpiece released in 2009. This studio album, recorded in January 2008 at Swiss Radio DRS2 in Zürich, is a testament to Frith's enduring influence in the realms of experimental and free jazz. With a running time of over an hour, the album is a deep dive into the intricate and innovative sounds that Frith and the ARTE Quartett are known for.

"The Big Picture" is divided into two main sections: a six-part suite that forms the core of the album, and a series of standalone pieces that showcase the individual talents of the ensemble members. The suite, titled "The Big Picture Part 1" through "Part 6," is a complex and layered composition that highlights the collective's ability to blend structured composition with spontaneous improvisation. Each part of the suite builds on the previous, creating a cohesive and engaging musical journey.

The standalone pieces offer a different perspective, featuring soloists such as B. Hofstetter, S. Armbruster, and A. Formenti, who each bring their unique voices to the table. Tracks like "Hopscotch (for John Zorn)" and "T. Square Park Lark (for Frank Zappa)" pay homage to influential figures in the avant-garde and experimental music scenes, while others, like "Nostalgia" and "Batteries Not Included," offer introspective and reflective moments.

The album's diverse tracklist reflects the eclectic influences that have shaped Fred Frith's career, from his early days in the experimental rock band Henry Cow to his collaborations with artists like John Zorn and Frank Zappa. "The Big Picture" is a rich and rewarding listening experience, offering a glimpse into the creative process of one of the most innovative and influential figures in contemporary music. With its blend of avant-garde, free jazz, experimental, and tango elements, this album is a true testament to Fred Frith's artistic vision and the ARTE Quartett's exceptional musicianship.