Mark O'Leary's "Astral Fishing" is a captivating journey into the realms of free jazz and avant-garde music, released on July 1, 2011, under the Italian label Tibprod. This album is a testament to O'Leary's versatility, marking a shift from his previous avant-garde jazz works to a more nuanced and collaborative sound. Recorded in Helsinki, the album is the result of a fruitful collaboration with Finnish musicians Olavi Louhivuori and Teppa Hauta-aho, adding a unique Finnish flavor to O'Leary's Irish roots.
"Astral Fishing" spans six tracks, with a total duration of 47 minutes. The album features a mix of remastered tracks and new compositions, showcasing O'Leary's skillful guitar work and the collective improvisational prowess of the trio. Tracks like "Eksyksiin kalastus" and "For Alvar Aalto" highlight the album's experimental nature, while "Lintujen kokous" and "Mannerheim" offer a more structured yet equally engaging listening experience.
The album's title track, "Astral Fishing," is a standout piece that encapsulates the essence of the album—blending free jazz with avant-garde elements, creating a sound that is both innovative and accessible. O'Leary's guitar playing is intricate and expressive, complementing the rhythmic complexity and harmonic depth contributed by Louhivuori and Hauta-aho.
"Astral Fishing" is not just an album but a musical exploration that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz, offering listeners a fresh and exciting auditory experience. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album promises to captivate and inspire.
