Thurston Moore Announces “NOW JAZZ NOW”: A Deep Dive into Essential Free Jazz Recordings
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A comprehensive new book, “NOW JAZZ NOW: 100 Essential Free Jazz & Improvisation Recordings [1960-80],” is set to be released on December 5 by Thurston Moore through his Ecstatic Peace Library imprint. The project represents a significant contribution to the documentation and celebration of a pivotal era in jazz history, offering a curated guide to the genre’s most influential works.
The forthcoming publication isn’t a solitary effort. It’s the result of a unique collaboration between Moore and a distinguished group of artists and writers, including saxophonist Mats Gustafsson, singer-songwriter Neneh Cherry, free jazz pioneer Joe McPhee, and esteemed music writer Byron Coley. This diverse collective brings a wealth of experience and passion to the project.
A Collector’s Obsession Realized
“NOW JAZZ NOW” extends beyond a simple list of albums. Spanning 277 pages, the book delves into the rich visual and textual world surrounding these recordings. Readers can expect a detailed exploration of album art, record labels, original sleeve notes, and personal reflections from the collaborators on their decades-long dedication to record collecting.
According to a release, the book’s core focus is the recorded history of Free Jazz and Free Improvisation, two subgenres known for their experimental nature and rejection of traditional jazz structures. The collaborators aim to provide both an accessible entry point for newcomers and a valuable resource for seasoned enthusiasts.
Exploring a Revolutionary Era
The period between 1960 and 1980 witnessed a radical transformation in jazz music. Artists began to push the boundaries of harmony, rhythm, and form, resulting in a sound that was often challenging, yet profoundly innovative. This era saw the emergence of iconic figures and groundbreaking recordings that continue to inspire musicians today.
The book’s selection of 100 essential recordings promises to highlight the diversity and complexity of this period. It will likely showcase the work of artists who defined the sound of Free Jazz and Free Improvisation, offering insights into their creative processes and the cultural context in which they operated.
Pre-orders for “NOW JAZZ NOW” are currently available here. This book is poised to become a definitive resource for anyone interested in exploring the vibrant and often-overlooked world of experimental jazz.
