"A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall" is a captivating collaborative effort between experimental music veterans Fred Frith and Ikue Mori, released in 2015. This avant-garde and free jazz album is a testament to the duo's improvisational prowess and their ability to blend genres seamlessly, incorporating elements of experimental and tango music. The album features 15 tracks, each offering a unique sonic landscape, all within a concise 42-minute duration.
Recorded in January 2015 at Jankowski Sound Fabrik in Esslingen, Germany, the album was initially created for a radio play by filmmaker Werner Penzel, a longtime friend of Fred Frith. The recording process was meticulous, with tracks mixed at different times, ensuring each piece received the attention it deserved. The title, "A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall," encapsulates the album's mood—playful, poetic, mysterious, and open. The album's eclectic tracklist, featuring titles like "The Biggest Lie," "Stirred by Wind and Waves," and "Samadhi," hints at the diverse musical journey that awaits the listener.
Fred Frith, known for his innovative approach to guitar and composition, and Ikue Mori, renowned for her work with laptops and electronics, create a dynamic interplay that makes "A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall" a standout in their discographies. The album is a testament to their individual talents and their collective ability to push the boundaries of experimental music. Released under Intakt Records, this album is a must-explore for fans of avant-garde and free jazz, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.
