The Big Gundown
John Zorn · 1986
50 min · 10 tracks · avant-garde jazz
A frenetic collage of avant-garde jazz intertwines with cinematic themes and unconventional structures.
Why this album works
'The Big Gundown' is significant for its innovative reimagining of film scores, influencing both the avant-garde and jazz genres. It received critical acclaim, exemplified by its inclusion in various year-end lists, and showcased Zorn's ability to fuse disparate musical elements seamlessly.
- Best for
- dynamic exploration of themes wave-like pacing with surprises cinematic soundscapes for focus
- Context
- Released in 1986, 'The Big Gundown' was John Zorn's third album, following the critically acclaimed 'Naked City.' At this point, Zorn was solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing composer, blending jazz with a myriad of influences. This album further established his unique voice within the avant-garde scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Christina Aguilera· Diana Ross· Madonna· Prince· George Benson· Chicago· Bob Dylan· Barbra Streisand
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Big Gundown Standout 7:26
- 2 Peur sur la ville 4:16
- 3 Poverty (Once Upon a Time in America) 3:49
- 4 Milano odea 3:03
- 5 Erotico (The Burglars) 4:27
- 6 Battle of Algiers Standout 3:50
- 7 Giu la testa (Duck, You Sucker!) 6:06
- 8 Metamorfosi (La classe operaia va in paradiso) 4:36
- 9 Tre Nel 5000 4:37
- 10 Once Upon a Time in the West Standout 8:31
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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