Free Jazz: A New Guide Tackles its Challenging Sound

Sonic Youth's Thurston Moore, alongside writer Byron Coley and saxophonist Mats Gustafsson, has co-authored "Now Jazz Now: 100 Essential Free Jazz and Improvisation Recordings 1960-80." This comprehensive guide delves into the often-misunderstood world of free jazz, a style characterized by its departure from standard rhythms and structures. The book endeavors to present this avant-garde music with enthusiasm, countering its historical critical reception as mere noise.

Moore passionately describes free jazz as both liberated and deeply indebted to its tradition, drawing parallels to experimental forms in noise and art rock. The guide features engaging prose, aiming to make the music approachable for listeners unfamiliar with its complexities. It includes a foreword by Neneh Cherry, whose stepfather, free jazz pioneer Don Cherry, influenced her understanding of the genre.

Despite efforts to broaden its appeal, free jazz has historically faced significant derision and commercial failure, with artists like Jimmy Giuffre experiencing setbacks. The book recommends key works, encouraging exploration of a genre that, while demanding, offers profound artistic expression and a unique sonic experience for those willing to engage.