Prepare to be captivated by the raw, unfiltered energy of "I Love Noise," the latest collaboration between legendary saxophonist Joe McPhee and drummer extraordinaire Paal Nilssen-Love. Released on December 6, 2024, via PNL Records, this album is a testament to the enduring musical dialogue between these two titans of free jazz and improvisation.
Spanning a single, continuous performance divided into two parts, "I Love Noise" is a live recording from the Catalytic Sound Festival in Chicago, December 2022. The album captures the intense, spontaneous interplay that has characterized McPhee and Nilssen-Love's collaborations over the past quarter-century. From their early days in The Thing to their more recent explorations, the duo's chemistry is palpable, resulting in a performance that is as intense as it is intimate.
Joe McPhee, born in Miami, Florida, in 1939, is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and improviser whose career spans over six decades. His unique approach to the saxophone, coupled with his conceptual and theoretical insights, has made him a seminal figure in the world of avant-garde jazz. Paal Nilssen-Love, now 50, has been a key figure in the European free jazz scene, known for his powerful and dynamic drumming style.
"I Love Noise" is not just an album; it's a document of a live performance that showcases the sheer power and creativity of McPhee and Nilssen-Love. The album's two extended tracks offer a deep dive into the duo's improvisational prowess, with McPhee's tenor saxophone weaving intricate melodies and Nilssen-Love's drums providing a relentless, driving rhythm. The result is a high-energy, free jazz experience that will leave you breathless.
The album is available in both digital and vinyl formats, ensuring that fans can enjoy the music in their preferred medium. The vinyl release, in particular, is a treat for audiophiles, with high-resolution audio formats available for download. The album's cover design by Lasse Marhaug and photography by Matt Laferty add to the overall aesthetic appeal, making "I Love Noise" a visually striking package as well.
Whether you're a long-time fan of Joe McPhee and Paal Nilssen-Love or a newcomer to their music, "I Love Noise" is an essential addition to your collection. It's a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of free jazz and the magic that can happen when two master musicians come together. So, turn up the volume and let the noise wash over you.
