Anthony Braxton: Composition No.94 For Three Instrumentalists (1980)

On this recording, Braxton utilizes his customary arsenal of woodwind instruments while Ray Anderson performs on alto and tenor trombone, cornet and slide trumpet. Guitarist James Emery performs on acoustic and electric guitars while dabbling with some good old analog electronics which are put to good use and not overly exaggerated within this framework, especially considering the fascination with electronic gadgets during this timeframe in history. Emery provides color, while at times launching the themes or dialogue into linear concepts, which become expanded upon by the trio while remaining within the context of Braxton’s seemingly difficult to perform compositions. Much of the interplay is fascinating via multitonal instrumentation and imaginative improvisation. As usual, Braxton’s perspectives and deeply personal if not scholarly approach defies categorization as his bandmates also give it their all!

Anthony Braxton’s Composition No.94 For Three Instrumentalists (1980) is an important edition to a form of music which evolves yet beckons rediscovery. Leo Records has dutifully addressed that notion with the advent of this new record label! * * * *

Comments