Is Lemma a good place to start with John Zorn?

Yes, Lemma is recommended as a starting point for new John Zorn listeners. A tapestry of tightly woven avant-garde motifs, blending spontaneous jazz with structured compositions and esoteric themes. By the time 'Lemma' was released in 2013, John Zorn was an established figure in avant-garde music, having released numerous critically acclaimed albums since the late 1980s. This album represents his continued exploration of complex musical forms, following works like 'The Gnostic Preludes' and 'Naked City'. At this point, Zorn's repertoire also included film scoring and a variety of collaborations that showcased his multifaceted approach to composition.

Lemma works well if you're into wave-like pacing encourages reflection, cryptic motifs spark curiosity and dynamic progression with peaks.

How many songs are on Lemma?

Lemma has 17 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Lemma

John Zorn · 2013

54 min · 17 tracks · avant-garde jazz

A tapestry of tightly woven avant-garde motifs, blending spontaneous jazz with structured compositions and esoteric themes.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Apophthegms I Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
→
Passagen — Clocking in at over 14 minutes, this track serves as a centerpiece for 'Lemma', showcasing Zorn's ability to blend improvisation with intricate thematic development. Its expansive structure allows for deep exploration of motifs and moods.
→
Ceremonial Magic I — This piece introduces listeners to Zorn's use of ritualistic elements and complex textures, exemplifying his interest in blending different musical traditions and philosophies into avant-garde jazz.
→
Apophthegms VII — With its concise duration yet profound impact, this track encapsulates the essence of Zorn's experimental style, delivering a burst of intensity that reflects the album's overarching themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing encourages reflection
cryptic motifs spark curiosity
dynamic progression with peaks
short tracks for focused attention
immersive experience through in-order listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Presents a unique structure and sound that departs from traditional formats.
Career context: By the time 'Lemma' was released in 2013, John Zorn was an established figure in avant-garde music, having released numerous critically acclaimed albums since the late 1980s. This album represents his continued exploration of complex musical forms, following works like 'The Gnostic Preludes' and 'Naked City'. At this point, Zorn's repertoire also included film scoring and a variety of collaborations that showcased his multifaceted approach to composition.
Stylistic neighbors: Mike Patton· The Thing· Merzbow