Baal: Book of Angels Volume 15
Ben Goldberg · 2010
47 min · 9 tracks
Austere melodies intertwine with complex rhythms, creating an intricate soundscape that balances tradition and avant-garde exploration.
Top tracks — play these first
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Chachmiel — The opening track establishes the album's thematic depth with its layered clarinet lines that evoke mystical imagery while inviting listeners into Goldberg's world of sound.
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Pharzuph — This piece stands out for its dynamic interplay between musicians, showcasing Goldberg's ability to balance intricate arrangements with spontaneous expression.
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'ifafi — Here, Goldberg incorporates unexpected rhythmic shifts that challenge traditional forms, making it a highlight of innovation within the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases complex compositions and unique clarinet work within a cohesive framework.
What we noticed
- Each track features a distinct melodic theme that is developed through intricate interplay between the clarinet and rhythm section.
- Several tracks incorporate extended techniques on the clarinet, adding texture and depth to the overall sound.
- The sequencing of tracks maintains a consistent atmosphere, with gradual shifts in intensity and complexity.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- improvisational textures that invite exploration
- rich emotional landscapes to uncover
- captivating rhythms for focused listening
- dynamic shifts in pacing and
Maybe skip if you
- seeking straightforward, predictable structures
- prefer instant gratification over nuance
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When Ben Goldberg released Baal: Book of Angels Volume 15 in 2010, he was already a respected figure in the jazz scene, known for his innovative clarinet work. This album marked his continued collaboration with John Zorn's Masada project, following his earlier contributions to the series and signaling his deepening engagement with avant-garde jazz and Jewish musical traditions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Zorn· Dave Douglas· Tim Berne
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Chachmiel 7:20
- 2 Asimor 4:27
- 3 Irin 4:31
- 4 Pharzuph 7:18
- 5 Lahash 2:51
- 6 Reqel 7:17
- 7 'ifafi 5:08
- 8 Uzza 3:09
- 9 Poteh 5:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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