Matana Roberts - Sticks and Stones (LP)

Dive into the avant-garde jazz landscape with Matana Roberts' debut album "Sticks and Stones," a powerful collaboration with bassist Josh Abrams and drummer Chad Taylor. Released on January 1, 2002, via 482 Music, this 49-minute journey is a testament to the trio's mastery of free jazz, experimental, and avant-garde genres.

"Sticks and Stones" features Matana Roberts' distinctive alto saxophone, characterized by its full-bodied tonality, weaving through the intricate compositions. The album's eleven tracks, including standout pieces like "Turning the Mark," "Equally Strong," and "Suhassani," showcase the trio's improvisational skills and deep musical chemistry. Each song is a unique exploration, blending raw energy with delicate subtlety, making it a captivating listen from start to finish.

Matana Roberts, an associate member of Chicago's Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), brings her innovative spirit to the forefront. Her collaboration with Abrams and Taylor results in a dynamic and revelatory musical experience. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, "Sticks and Stones" offers a fresh and exhilarating perspective on contemporary jazz.