What makes Piano Solo Vol. 2 by Irène Schweizer notable?

This album stands out for its bold experimentation within the free jazz genre, receiving critical acclaim for its intricate compositions and emotional depth. It has influenced a generation of pianists in both jazz and avant-garde music, highlighting Schweizer's role as a trailblazer in the free improvisation movement. By 1992, Irène Schweizer had already established herself as a prominent figure in the European free jazz scene. 'Piano Solo Vol. 2' is her follow-up to 'Piano Solo,' released in 1989, showcasing her continued exploration of solo piano improvisation, further solidifying her innovative approach and artistic identity.

How many songs are on Piano Solo Vol. 2?

Piano Solo Vol. 2 has 9 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Piano Solo Vol. 2

Irène Schweizer · 1992

50 min · 9 tracks · free jazz

An intricate tapestry of spontaneous melodies and harmonies, weaving together the essence of free jazz improvisation with classical sensibilities.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Sisterhood of Spit (Dedicated to Chris and Dudu) — Opening the album with a playful yet introspective piece, this track sets the tone for Schweizer's unique blend of humor and seriousness in improvisation.
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Serious Hanging-Out — At nearly ten minutes long, this track showcases Schweizer's ability to create expansive musical narratives that evolve organically, reflecting the spontaneity of her style.
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... Ausserdem u. andererseits u. aussersihl — This lengthy piece exemplifies Schweizer's complex interplay between dissonance and harmony, pushing the boundaries of traditional piano music while maintaining an emotional core.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate improvisation and unique rhythmic structures, making it a notable entry in free jazz.

What we noticed

Each track features a distinct improvisational theme, with melodies that evolve organically throughout their duration.
The album employs a wide range of dynamics, from soft, contemplative passages to intense, frenetic bursts of sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Sisterhood of Spit (Dedicated to Chris and Dudu) 3:19
2 Fox-Trottel 3:14
3 All Alone 3:01
4 Serious Hanging-Out 9:31
5 Shredded Shuffle 5:19
6 Creeping Waltz 6:02
7 Chüschtenplötz 8:02
8 ... Ausserdem u. andererseits u. aussersihl 8:39
9 Ask Me Now 3:44

What to play next

Listen next

Piano Solo Vol. 1

1992

Go back to

Irène Schweizer & Pierre Favre

1992

Full Irène Schweizer discography Artists like Irène Schweizer

free improvisation free jazz

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