Performance (Quartet) 1979 cover

Performance (Quartet) 1979

Anthony Braxton · 1981

71 min · 2 tracks · jazz

A sprawling exploration of avant-garde jazz through intricate textures and dynamic improvisation that challenges traditional forms.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Part 1 — The first part unfolds as an intricate dialogue between instruments, introducing varied textures that set the tone for the rest of the album's experimental journey.
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    Part 2 — The second part builds on the thematic explorations of Part 1 while introducing more pronounced shifts in tempo and dynamics, showcasing Braxton's mastery of structure and spontaneity.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a departure from Braxton's earlier works, showcasing improvisational complexity.
Themes
avant-garde jazz exploration· operatic textures· dynamic improvisation
Career context
By the time 'Performance (Quartet) 1979' was released in 1981, Anthony Braxton had already established himself as a leading figure in avant-garde jazz. This album followed his critically acclaimed works from the late 1970s and showcased his ongoing commitment to expanding the boundaries of jazz, particularly through the integration of operatic elements and complex compositional structures.
Stylistic neighbors
Ornette Coleman· Sun Ra· Henry Threadgill

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Part 1 36:48
  • 2 Part 2 34:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata