2-Z cover

Released 30 years ago

2-Z

Matthew Shipp · 1996

45 min · 11 tracks · jazz

Exploratory jazz textures blend with avant-garde improvisation, creating a complex tapestry of sound that challenges traditional boundaries.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • exploratory soundscapes for curiosity
  • short tracks encouraging active listening
  • improvisational moments that surprise
  • cerebral engagement over passive enjoyment

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking straightforward melodic structures
  • prefer predictable rhythmic patterns

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1996, Matthew Shipp was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the avant-garde jazz scene. This album, '2-Z', is his follow-up to 'Spiritual Unity' and showcases his evolving style as a pianist and composer, marking a period of increased experimentation in his work.
Stylistic neighbors
William Hooker· Sun Ra· Cecil Taylor

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 2-Z 3:10
  • 2 2-Z-2 4:03
  • 3 2-Z-3 4:46
  • 4 2-Z-4 4:47
  • 5 2-Z-5 2:53
  • 6 2-Z-6 2:46
  • 7 2-Z-7 2:40
  • 8 2-Z-8 4:14
  • 9 2-Z-9 2:54
  • 10 2-Z-10 6:02
  • 11 2-Z-11 (The Physics of Angels) 6:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata