"A Cosmic Rhythm With Each Stroke," released in March 2016 on ECM Records, is a captivating exploration of free jazz by the esteemed pianist Vijay Iyer and legendary trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith. This collaborative effort marks a significant reunion, as Iyer and Smith previously played together in Smith's Golden Quartet, but this album is the first to document their duo work. Produced by the renowned Manfred Eicher at New York's Avatar Studios, the album features a spellbinding title suite dedicated to the innovative Indian artist Nasreen Mohamedi.
The album spans nine tracks, with the centerpiece being the seven-part suite "A Cosmic Rhythm With Each Stroke," which pays homage to Mohamedi's improvisatory imagery. The suite, along with the additional track "Marian Anderson," showcases the deep musical connection and mutual respect between Iyer and Smith. Each piece is a testament to their individual virtuosity and collective mastery of the jazz idiom.
"All Becomes Alive" opens the suite with a sense of wonder and discovery, setting the tone for the introspective journey that follows. "The Empty Mind Receives" and "Labyrinths" delve into the complexities of the human experience, while "A Divine Courage" and "Uncut Emeralds" highlight the duo's ability to blend raw energy with delicate subtlety. "A Cold Fire" and "Notes On Water" further explore the contrasts and harmonies that define their unique sound.
With a duration of one hour and six minutes, "A Cosmic Rhythm With Each Stroke" is a profound and engaging listen, offering a rich tapestry of sound and silence. The album is a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the timeless bond between two of its most revered practitioners.
