"The Blue Mountain's Sun Drummer" is a captivating journey into the realms of free jazz and avant-garde, masterfully crafted by the legendary Wadada Leo Smith. Released on January 1, 2010, via Kabell Records, this album is a testament to Smith's innovative spirit and his enduring collaboration with the late, great drummer Ed Blackwell. Spanning just over 51 minutes, the record features nine tracks that showcase the duo's unique chemistry and their shared love for pushing musical boundaries.
The album opens with "Uprising," setting the tone for the explorative journey that lies ahead. Each track, from the ethereal "Love" to the ritualistic "Buffalo People - A Blues Ritual Dance," offers a glimpse into the profound connection between Smith's trumpet and Blackwell's drums. The title track, "The Blue Mountain's Sun Drummer," is a standout, paying homage to Blackwell and encapsulating the album's spirit of celebration and reflection.
Wadada Leo Smith's compositions are known for their spiritual depth and technical prowess, and "The Blue Mountain's Sun Drummer" is no exception. The album is a beautiful blend of improvisation and structured composition, with each piece telling a story that is both personal and universal. The interplay between Smith and Blackwell is nothing short of magical, with the drummer's subtle rhythms complementing the trumpeter's soaring melodies.
This album is a treasure trove for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a rich listening experience that highlights the beauty of free jazz and avant-garde music. Whether you're familiar with Wadada Leo Smith's work or discovering it for the first time, "The Blue Mountain's Sun Drummer" is an album that demands attention and rewards repeated listens.
Vinylscout