Virtue

"Virtue," the 2020 release from avant-garde maestro John Zorn, is a captivating exploration of spiritual themes and acoustic guitar virtuosity. Recorded and mixed in late November 2019 at EastSide Sound in NYC, this album is a testament to Zorn's enduring creativity and his ability to push musical boundaries. The album features a trio of exceptional guitarists: Bill Frisell, Julian Lage, and Gyan Riley, who collectively deliver a performance that is both delicate and powerful.

"Virtue" is a collection of twelve compositions, each offering a unique blend of melody, lyricism, and spiritual depth. The album's moody and evocative atmosphere is achieved through the intricate interplay of the three guitarists, who weave together a tapestry of sound that is both haunting and beautiful. From the opening track "Juliana" to the closing piece "Infernal Night (Sin Is Behovely)," the album maintains a consistent sense of purpose and vision.

The album's packaging is as thoughtful as its music, coming in a 4-panel digipak with an additional 2-sided insert. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Zorn's work, reflecting his commitment to the artistry of the album as a physical object. Whether you're a longtime fan of John Zorn or a newcomer to his work, "Virtue" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's 46-minute duration is filled with moments of profound beauty and introspection, making it a standout release in Zorn's extensive discography.

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.