Dave Douglas - Keystone (LP)

Dave Douglas delivers a captivating journey through the realms of free jazz and avant-garde with his 2005 album "Keystone." This twenty-fifth studio effort, released under the Greenleaf Music label, is a testament to Douglas' innovative spirit and his ability to blend genres seamlessly. Inspired by the legendary Roscoe Arbuckle, the album features compositions that are as rich in history as they are in musical complexity.

"Keystone" boasts a stellar lineup, with Dave Douglas on trumpet leading a dynamic ensemble that includes Jamie Saft on Wurlitzer piano, Marcus Strickland on saxophones, Brad Jones on bass, Gene Lake on drums, and DJ Olive on turntables. Recorded in New York between January and May 2005, the album's ten tracks offer a diverse range of sounds and styles, from the haunting "A Noise from the Deep" to the playful "Barnyard Flirtations."

The album's standout tracks, such as "Fatty's Day Off" and "Mabel Normand," pay homage to the silent film era, with Douglas's compositions adding a modern twist to classic themes. "Keystone" was nominated for a GRAMMY for 'Best Contemporary Jazz Album' in 2005, solidifying its place as a significant work in the jazz canon. With its intricate arrangements and virtuosic performances, "Keystone" is a must-listen for any fan of innovative jazz.