Lost Cecil Taylor Tapes Reveal Avant-Garde Genius

A significant live recording from Cecil Taylor's archives, originally slated for NPR broadcast, has been uncovered. This performance captures a unique transitional phase for the renowned free-jazz pianist's ensemble, offering listeners a glimpse into a pivotal moment in his career. The set features long-time collaborators alto saxophonist Jimmy Lyons and violinist Ramsey Ameen.

This recording also introduces bassist Alan Silva, returning after his work on Taylor's classic Blue Note albums, and percussionist Jerome Cooper, who makes his debut with the group. Despite the ensemble's evolving rhythm section, the performance navigates recognizable structures of improvisation, pushing the musicians into bold sonic territories.

The music demonstrates Taylor's signature style, characterized by 'eighty-eight tuned drums,' but also reveals a broader range. Listeners can hear dramatic shifts from aggressive, low-register rhythms to dizzying upper-register runs, interspersed with moments of delicate sensibility influenced by Duke Ellington. Lyons' saxophone work acts as a constant anchor to the jazz tradition throughout the intense improvisations.

Percussionist Jerome Cooper's approach provides a grounding force amidst the maelstrom of sound, offering steady rhythms that complement the intensity. The interplay between violinist Ramsey Ameen and bassist Alan Silva creates a unique tonal color, especially noticeable when Cooper switches to balafon and Taylor engages directly with his piano's strings, evoking surreal and transfixing sounds reminiscent of Harry Partch or John Cage.