Holding It Down: The Veterans' Dreams Project
Vijay Iyer · 2013
70 min · 17 tracks · jazz · progressive jazz
A haunting blend of jazz improvisation and spoken word reflections on the lives of veterans.
Why this album works
This album is notable for its unique approach to storytelling, intertwining jazz with the poignant experiences of veterans. It received critical acclaim, including a spot on NPR's Best Jazz Albums of 2013, highlighting Iyer's innovative fusion of genres and themes.
- Career context
- By 2013, Vijay Iyer was gaining recognition as a leading voice in contemporary jazz, following his acclaimed album 'Historicity' (2009). 'Holding It Down: The Veterans' Dreams Project' marked a significant expansion of his artistic focus, incorporating narratives from veterans into his music, showcasing his commitment to social issues through art.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Robert Glasper· Queen Latifah· Bill Frisell
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Here (Mike, Cambridge) 3:08
- 2 Derelict Poetry (Maurice, Brooklyn) 4:16
- 3 Capacity (Lynn, Bronx) 3:57
- 4 Walking With the Duppy (Rashan, Queens) 3:42
- 5 There Is a Man Slouching in the Stairway (Maurice, Brooklyn) 3:59
- 6 My Fire (Brad, Chester, NC) 3:09
- 7 On Patrol (Maurice, Brooklyn) 4:54
- 8 Dream of an Ex-Ranger (William, Newton, MA) 3:10
- 9 Name (Lynn, Bronx) 3:38
- 10 Costume (Mike, Cambridge) 4:08
- 11 Tormented Star of Morning (Maurice, Brooklyn) 5:09
- 12 Patton (Calvin, Massapequa, NY) 4:58
- 13 Shush (Maurice, Brooklyn) 4:07
- 14 REM Killer (Kirk, Lexington, KY) 3:48
- 15 Requiem for an Insomniac (Maurice, Brooklyn) 5:14
- 16 Dreams in Color (Lynn, Bronx) 2:39
- 17 Mess Hall (Merrin, San Diego) 6:16
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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