| "Visions" is a compilation of cutting-edge performances from the EMIT series of experimental music.
Visions is a compilation of selected performances from the EMIT series of innovative and creative music based in St. Petersburg, Florida. More than half of the CD was recorded in the Salvador Dali Museum. The music ranges from experimental to electronic ambient to free jazz. If you are "strong of ear" and enjoy venues like The Knitting Factory, Tonic, and The Empty Bottle - this is a "must have" recording. Artists include Evan Parker, Sam Rivers, Pamela Z, Chris Brown, Phil Gelb, Amy Denio, Daniel Carter, Saturnalia, Day & Taxi, Eugene Chadbourne, Derek Bailey, Peter Kowald & SHIM.
Review from All About Jazz:
"At the twilight of the twentieth century, an underground "circuit" formed in the United States that allowed free-style jazz-oriented musicians to travel from city to city, performing at generally small venues. Some communities, such as those in Baltimore, Maryland and Buffalo, New York, managed to develop fairly large followings, due substantially to the work of one or more intensely devoted individuals. This recording collects tracks recorded from concerts in Tampa Bay - St. Petersburg, Florida, mostly at the Salvador Dali Museum. The surprisingly vibrant scene in central Florida produced a surfeit of selections to choose from, making the winnowing process an extremely difficult one. The tracks that were chosen are a treasure trove of free improvisation.
The opening duo featuring British reed player Evan Parker and longtime Orlando, Florida resident and world class improviser Sam Rivers is probably the highlight of the compilation, as these two giants are rarely, if ever, heard performing together. The track delivers handsomely, with the different styles of the two saxophonists meshing perfectly. Other highlights include a riveting improvisation featuring British guitarist Derek Bailey and local percussionist phenom Jim Stewart; a solo acoustic bass exhibition by German bassist Peter Kowald; a wacky improvised duet between Davey Williams on guitar and talented producer-trombonist David Manson; and a strong group effort by Eugene Chadbourne and a version of the Floridian powerhouse group, SHIM.
As an introduction to avant garde jazz or free improvisation, this is one the best on the market. But discard the labels and listen: There are some remarkably capable performers here who you may not hear again because their music is so hard to find. They transcend categories, and offer a real glimpse into a small, yet compelling underground world of solid musicianship." - Steven Loewy, AllAboutJazz |