Naked City
John Zorn · 1990
55 min · 26 tracks · avant-garde jazz
A frenetic collision of genres, blending avant-garde jazz, grindcore, and cinematic themes into a chaotic tapestry.
Why this album works
- Best for
- wave-like pacing with surprises dynamic exploration of themes short bursts of chaotic energy
- Context
- Released on February 16, 1990, 'Naked City' marked John Zorn's emergence as a key figure in the avant-garde jazz scene. This album followed his acclaimed work 'The Big Gundown' (1985), showcasing his increasingly eclectic style and willingness to experiment with extreme musical forms.
- If you like
- avant-garde jazz
Naked City is an album by John Zorn, released in 1990. A frenetic collision of genres, blending avant-garde jazz, grindcore, and cinematic themes into a chaotic tapestry. 'Naked City' is notable for its unique fusion of jazz with elements of punk and metal, influencing countless musicians across genres. The album received critical acclaim, being praised for its innovation and complexity, and it helped cement Zorn's reputation in the avant-garde music community. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Naked City sound like?
A frenetic collision of genres, blending avant-garde jazz, grindcore, and cinematic themes into a chaotic tapestry. Rooted in avant-garde jazz.
What makes Naked City by John Zorn notable?
'Naked City' is notable for its unique fusion of jazz with elements of punk and metal, influencing countless musicians across genres. The album received critical acclaim, being praised for its innovation and complexity, and it helped cement Zorn's reputation in the avant-garde music community. Released on February 16, 1990, 'Naked City' marked John Zorn's emergence as a key figure in the avant-garde jazz scene. This album followed his acclaimed work 'The Big Gundown' (1985), showcasing his increasingly eclectic style and willingness to experiment with extreme musical forms.
Who is Naked City for?
Naked City works well if you're into wave-like pacing with surprises, dynamic exploration of themes and short bursts of chaotic energy.
How many songs are on Naked City?
Naked City has 26 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Batman Standout 2:03
- 2 The Sicilian Clan 3:33
- 3 You Will Be Shot 1:31
- 4 Latin Quarter 4:11
- 5 A Shot in the Dark 3:13
- 6 Reanimator 1:43
- 7 Snagglepuss 2:20
- 8 I Want to Live 2:12
- 9 Lonely Woman Standout 2:45
- 10 Igneous Ejaculation 0:23
- 11 Blood Duster 0:16
- 12 Hammerhead 0:11
- 13 Demon Sanctuary 0:41
- 14 Obeah Man 0:20
- 15 Ujaku 0:30
- 16 Fuck the Facts 0:14
- 17 Speedball 0:43
- 18 Chinatown Standout 4:28
- 19 Punk China Doll 3:05
- 20 N.Y. Flat Top Box 0:45
- 21 Saigon Pickup 4:50
- 22 The James Bond Theme 3:06
- 23 Den of Sins 1:14
- 24 Contempt 2:53
- 25 Graveyard Shift 3:32
- 26 Inside Straight 4:17
Release Date
February 16, 1990
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
55 min 12 sec
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