"Scraps and Shadows" is a captivating free jazz album by the dynamic duo of Joe McPhee and Chris Corsano, released in 2012 under the Roaratorio label. This sophomore collaboration, following their previous work "Under A Double Moon," showcases McPhee's versatility, primarily featuring him on the alto saxophone.
The album is a tribute to various influential figures in the jazz and broader artistic community, as each of the seven tracks is dedicated to someone significant, such as Fred Anderson, Muhammad Ali, and Kidd Jordan. This personal touch adds a layer of depth and meaning to the music, making it not just an auditory experience but also a homage to those who have inspired McPhee and Corsano.
With a runtime of just over 34 minutes, "Scraps and Shadows" is a concise yet powerful exploration of free jazz and avant-garde sounds. The interplay between McPhee's saxophone and Corsano's drums creates a raw and intense atmosphere, characteristic of the free jazz genre. The album's title, "Scraps and Shadows," hints at the improvisational and abstract nature of the music, where fragments of melodies and rhythmic shadows come together to form a cohesive whole.
This album is a testament to McPhee's enduring influence in the jazz world, even at the age of 72 at the time of its release. "Scraps and Shadows" is a must-listen for fans of free jazz and those looking to explore the genre's boundaries. The album's unique dedication to various artists and its raw, unfiltered sound make it a standout release in McPhee's extensive discography.
