Roscoe Mitchell's "Duets" is a captivating exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds, featuring the legendary saxophonist in a series of intimate performances with fellow icon Anthony Braxton. Recorded in December 1977, this album showcases the deep musical conversation between two of the most influential figures in the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM). The eight-track album, released on September 15, 2017, via Sackville, offers a unique blend of compositions and improvisations that highlight the artists' mastery and innovative spirit.
The album opens with "Five Twenty One Equals Eight," a darkly beautiful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Mitchell's earthy flute and Braxton's contrabass clarinet weave together in a mesmerizing duet. The compositions range from the sparse and abstract, such as "Line Fine Lyon Seven," to the more intricate and evocative, like "Cards - Three And Open." The album also includes previously unreleased material, such as the alternate take of "Seven Behind Nine Ninety-Seven Sixteen Or Seven," offering a fresh perspective on Mitchell's compositions.
In addition to the duets with Braxton, the album features Roscoe Mitchell in a duet with the fantastic Mexican flautist Wilfrido Terrazas, adding another layer of musical depth and diversity. The album's 43-minute duration is packed with rich, exploratory sounds that push the boundaries of jazz and avant-garde music.
"Duets" is a testament to Roscoe Mitchell's enduring influence and his ability to create music that is both innovative and timeless. Whether you're a long-time fan of Mitchell's work or a newcomer to his unique sound, this album offers a compelling journey into the world of free jazz and avant-garde composition.
