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Barry Guy/Marilyn Crispell/Paul Lytton: Ithaca
ByGuy, pianist Marilyn Crispell, and percussionist Paul Lytton are among the more notable improvisers on the globe. To that end, this band's mark of distinction and clarity of execution separates the thriving wannabes from the proven warriors. Their music is based upon many variables, including swirling clusters and happenstance dialogues amid moments of soul-stirring solitude. The trio also excels when seamlessly transposing intense movements into softly melodic grooves. At times, they effortlessly merge a sense of introversion with aggressive tactics and climactic opuses, marked by Crispell's gravitating crescendos. Architecturally speaking, the musicians devise an abundance of contrasting angles, while translucently switching gears on occasion. A superb and often stunning rendering of free improvisation, built upon substance and a noticeable sense of purpose. Outstanding.
Track Listing
Fire and Ice, Void (for Doris), First Shard, Broken Silence, Second Shard, Ithaca, Zinc, Third Shard, Unfolding, Zig Zag, Klaglied
Personnel
Barry Guy
bassBarry Guy (bass), Marilyn Crispell (piano), Paul Lytton (percussion)
Album information
Title: Ithaca | Year Released: 2005 | Record Label: Intakt Records