John Zorn’s Masada was originally formed by the famed
saxophonist and composer for two very different reasons; one, to create a group
capable of playing a collection of self-composed Hebrew-titled songs of Jewish
imagery, and two, to satisfy an itch of creating a group in the style Ornette
Colemans classic quartet. While it may in theory sound a disparate mix, in fact
together what was created in these highly capable hands was a uniquely distinct
hot and intense musical blend.
‘Alef’ is step one to what would become a highly
prolific and incredibly rewarding endeavour, featuring not only Zorn on his
trademark alto saxophone, but also the excellent Dave Douglas on trumpet. And
even though these two great players make a winning front-line, it is the rhythm
section that really powers this group with such feiry dynamism – the always
strong Joey Baron on drums, and Greg Cohen on bass, that though acoustic,
possesses power, thrust and groove that only few players can ever aspire to
own.
‘Jair’ kicks things off explosively, perfectly fusing
Coleman with Zorn’s love of punk’s immediacy and drive, while the group are
careful to then show another side of their playing with the comparitvely
smoother ‘Bith Aneth’ that benefits from a very different but very good
Latin-esque rhythm, that does need to be heard to be understood.
The whole recording is stunning from beginning to end,
showcasing thrilling drive, rewarding melody and harmony, and simply
outstanding musicianship. The tunes here are varied in emotion too, taking in
moving balladry, almost standard swing jazz and of course, as you’d expect from
Zorn, manic musical explosions of sound. Somehow throughout it all though, from
pieces of just under two minutes to those of almost ten, it maintains a distinct
and unique atmosphere and tension, all its own.
John Zorn is frequently the artist that always gets
dragged into the “Is he jazz?” argument. And Zorn has always quite plainly
stated that he considers himself not, but jazz gigs are what he gets to be able
to play and showcase his many different outlets. However in truth Masada is
probably his most near-to-jazz outfit and almost certainly some of the easier
music to listen to that he’s ever laid down. Everyone gets to solo, but it is a
strongly cohesive showcase, and everyone shines, playing to their fullest. Simply
‘Alef’ is a great recording, but for evidence of John Zorn the horn player and
musician, it’s brilliant.
Also for those curious, ‘Alef’ is the first letter of
the Hebrew alphabet – with each subsequent volume release being titled after
each following letter.
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