Ivo Perelman - Rhea (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of free jazz with Ivo Perelman's "Rhea," a mesmerizing collaboration with pianist Matthew Shipp, bassist Michael Bisio, and drummer Whit Dickey. Released on Leo Records in 2017, this avant-garde jazz album is the fifth volume in the "Art of Perelman-Shipp" series, each volume named after celestial bodies, with "Rhea" taking inspiration from one of Saturn's moons.

"Rhea" is a testament to the unique musical chemistry between Perelman and Shipp, who have been pushing the boundaries of jazz together for years. The album's seven untitled tracks, each labeled as a part (Pt. 1 through Pt. 7), offer a continuous journey through intricate improvisations and dynamic interplay. Perelman's passionate tenor saxophonic expressions are beautifully complemented by Shipp's eclectic piano work, Bisio's resonant bass, and Dickey's nuanced drumming.

With a runtime of 53 minutes, "Rhea" is a rich tapestry of sound that showcases the collective's ability to blend raw emotion with technical prowess. The album's liner notes, penned by Neil Tesser, provide insightful context, while the cover design by Tom Beckham adds a visual dimension to the auditory experience. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Rhea" offers a compelling exploration of the genre's avant-garde frontiers.