The Concealed cover

Released 14 years ago this October

The Concealed

John Zorn · 2012

62 min · 14 tracks · avant-garde jazz

A labyrinthine exploration of sound that weaves intricate melodies with dissonant textures, reflecting Zorn's avant-garde vision.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Persepolis Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its dynamic interplay of percussive elements and ethereal melodies, creating an immediate sense of intrigue.
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    Kavanah — A highlight due to its contemplative nature, this track features haunting woodwinds that evoke a spiritual journey, showcasing Zorn's mastery in blending emotion with abstraction.
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    The Way of the Sly Man — This track stands out for its rhythmic complexity and playful motifs, embodying Zorn's signature approach to improvisation while maintaining a structured narrative.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • wave-like pacing that evolves
  • kaleidoscopic sound exploration
  • immersive listening for deep focus

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Cited for its innovative style, exemplifying Zorn's artistic ambition.
Career context
By the time 'The Concealed' was released in 2012, John Zorn had established himself as a prolific figure in avant-garde jazz and experimental music, having already released over thirty albums since his debut in the 1980s. This album follows a string of collaborative projects and showcases Zorn's continued evolution as a composer and improviser, further solidifying his unique voice in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Mike Patton· The Thing· Merzbow

Tracklist

  • 1 Persepolis Start here 4:03
  • 2 The Hidden Book 2:57
  • 3 Passage to Essentuki 3:45
  • 4 Pathway of Fire 4:02
  • 5 Towards Kafiristan 3:30
  • 6 Kavanah 5:03
  • 7 Back to Bokhara 5:25
  • 8 The Silver Thread 4:28
  • 9 The Dervish 6:33
  • 10 The Way of the Sly Man 3:50
  • 11 Amu Darya 4:46
  • 12 A Portrait of Moses Cordovero 5:37
  • 13 Visitation of the Night Angels 4:09
  • 14 Life Is Real Only Then, When "I Am" 4:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata