Ellery Eskelin's "The Secret Museum," released on January 1, 2000, under the hatOLOGY label, is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds. This album, featuring collaborations with Andrea Parkins and Jim Black, showcases Eskelin's mastery of the tenor saxophone alongside an ensemble of talented musicians including Jacob Sacks on piano, Tony Malaby on tenor and soprano saxophones, Michael Formanek on acoustic bass, and Dan Weiss on drums.
"The Secret Museum" is a journey through ten intricate tracks, each offering a unique blend of improvisation and composition. The album's duration of 61 minutes allows for a deep dive into Eskelin's innovative approach to jazz, where traditional structures are subtly redefined. Tracks like "Vox Organalis" and "Paris Swallowtail" highlight the album's dynamic range, from hauntingly beautiful melodies to intense, avant-garde expressions.
Eskelin's work is known for its intellectual depth and emotional resonance, and "The Secret Museum" is no exception. The album's title suggests a hidden treasure trove of sounds and ideas, inviting the listener to uncover the layers of complexity within each piece. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, Ellery Eskelin's "The Secret Museum" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.