Art of the Improviser cover

Art of the Improviser

Matthew Shipp · 2011

91 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A daring exploration of jazz improvisation, blending intricate rhythms with spontaneous melodic creativity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • spontaneous melodic creativity
  • patient exploration of sound
  • immersive late-night listening
  • intense focus on improvisation

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer structured song formats
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time Matthew Shipp released 'Art of the Improviser' in 2011, he had established himself as a pivotal figure in avant-garde jazz. This album followed his earlier works such as 'Transient' (2004) and '4D' (2008), showcasing his continued evolution as a composer and pianist within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
William Hooker· Sun Ra· Cecil Taylor

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 The New Fact 12:27
  • 2 3 in 1 9:14
  • 3 Circular Temple #1 16:01
  • 4 Take the A Train 7:43
  • 5 Virgin Complex 6:48

Disc 2

  • 1 4D 5:38
  • 2 Fly Me to the Moon 5:11
  • 3 Wholetone 8:03
  • 4 Module 7:52
  • 5 Gamma Ray 7:23
  • 6 Patmos 4:49

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata