Giovanni Maier - Cruciverba (LP)

"Cruciverba," released in 2013 on Palomar Records, is a captivating exploration into the realms of nu jazz and free jazz, helmed by the innovative Giovanni Maier and featuring the exceptional Giancarlo Schiaffini. This collaborative effort is a testament to the duo's mastery of improvisation, delivering a rich and dynamic listening experience that spans 15 tracks and over an hour of music.

The album's unique tracklisting, with titles like "1 Verticale," "2 Orizzontale," and so on, adds an intriguing layer of curiosity, hinting at the structured yet spontaneous nature of the compositions. Recorded at the Palomar Studio, "Cruciverba" showcases the artists' ability to blend structured melodies with free-form improvisation, creating a sound that is both accessible and avant-garde.

Giovanni Maier's prowess as a musician shines through in every note, while Giancarlo Schiaffini's contributions add depth and texture to the overall sound. The album's duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the intricate web of sounds and rhythms that Maier and Schiaffini weave together.

Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Cruciverba" offers a compelling journey into the world of free improvisation and nu jazz. The album's 15 tracks, each with its unique character, provide a rich tapestry of musical exploration that is sure to captivate and inspire.