Yankees

Album Description

"Yankees" is a groundbreaking album of improvised music, featuring the legendary Derek Bailey on guitar, alongside the innovative John Zorn on saxophones and clarinet, and the virtuoso trombonist George Lewis. Released in 1983 on the Celluloid label, this album is a seminal work in the free jazz and avant-garde genres, showcasing the raw, unfiltered creativity of its performers.

The album consists of five captivating tracks: "City City City," "The Legend of Enos Slaughter," "Who's on First," "On Golden Pond," and "The Warning Track." Each piece is a testament to the spontaneous and collaborative nature of the music, with the artists pushing the boundaries of their instruments and the traditional structures of jazz.

"Yankees" marks the first recorded meeting of Derek Bailey and John Zorn, two titans of the avant-garde and free jazz scenes. Their chemistry is palpable, with Bailey's distinctive guitar playing complementing Zorn's eclectic and energetic saxophone work. George Lewis rounds out the trio with his powerful and expressive trombone playing, adding depth and richness to the improvisations.

The album was originally released as an LP and has since been reissued on CD by both Celluloid and Charly, ensuring that new generations of fans can experience this historic recording. With its innovative approach and exceptional performances, "Yankees" remains a vital and influential work in the world of experimental music.

1 januari 1983

1983 KP&P - CELLULOID N.Y.

About Derek Bailey

Derek Bailey, born in Sheffield in 1930, was a pioneering British guitarist renowned for his groundbreaking work in free improvisation. Emerging from the trad-jazz scene, Bailey's career took a dramatic turn in the 1960s when he shifted his focus to experimental and avant-garde music. His innovative approach to the guitar, which he virtually reinvented, set him apart as one of the most influential and adventurous musicians of his time. Bailey's music was entirely based on improvisation, operating outside any pre-existing idiom, and his performances were always unique and unpredictable. Before his untimely death in 2005, Bailey left an indelible mark on the world of experimental music, inspiring countless musicians with his fearless exploration of sound and technique.