Sylvie Courvoiser - Alien Huddle (LP)

"Alien Huddle" is a captivating journey into the realm of avant-garde and free jazz, crafted by the innovative trio of Sylvie Courvoisier, Lotte Anker, and Ikue Mori. Released in 2008 on Intakt Records, this album is a testament to the power of improvisation and the beauty of natural inspiration. The eleven tracks on "Alien Huddle" are each named after different birds and draw from the unique sounds and behaviors of these creatures, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and otherworldly.

Sylvie Courvoisier's piano work is a highlight of the album, her delicate and expressive playing complementing the raw, improvisational energy of Lotte Anker's saxophone and Ikue Mori's electronic textures. Anker, with her deep background in jazz, brings a sense of structure and melody to the trio's free-form explorations, while Mori's electronics add a layer of unpredictability and innovation.

The album's title is inspired by a large wooden sculpture by Martin Puryear, and the music reflects this artistic inspiration with its organic, flowing compositions. From the gentle coos of "Morning Dove" to the dramatic calls of "Great White Heron," each track offers a unique sonic experience, showcasing the trio's exceptional musicianship and creative vision. At just under 47 minutes, "Alien Huddle" is a concise yet powerful exploration of the boundaries of jazz and experimental music.