The Montreux/Berlin Concerts
Anthony Braxton · 1977
87 min · 5 tracks · jazz
Avant-garde improvisation melds with structured compositions, creating a dense tapestry of sound that challenges traditional jazz forms.
Top tracks — play these first
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Side One, Cut One: Z WBN D3B/Side One, Cut Two: H-46M B-BW4 Start here — This opening track establishes the concert's experimental ethos, blending spontaneous improvisation with complex structures that challenge listener expectations.
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Side Two, Cut One: 84° Kelvin---G — This piece exemplifies Braxton's unique ability to create tension through contrasting dynamics and textures, showcasing his virtuosity and imaginative soundscapes.
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Side Three, Cut One: 72° Kelvin---L/Side Three, Cut Two: 337-4 46842 BFG-12 — A lengthy exploration that embodies the spirit of collective improvisation, this track highlights the interplay between musicians and Braxton's role as both leader and collaborator.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases innovative compositions and improvisation, solidifying Braxton's unique voice in jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections that often blend structured compositions with free-form exploration.
- Each track varies significantly in length, with some pieces stretching over ten minutes, allowing for deep musical conversations.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic improvisations that evolve
- wave-like pacing with resolution
- immersive exploration of soundscapes
- extended tracks for deep engagement
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward musical structures
- seek immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Cemented Braxton's reputation as an innovative composer and performer.
- Themes
- avant-garde improvisation· Montreux jazz festival· Berlin cultural scene
- Career context
- Released in 1977, The Montreux/Berlin Concerts captures Anthony Braxton during a pivotal moment in his career, following his groundbreaking work on albums like For Alto. This live recording showcases his evolving approach to jazz, emphasizing free improvisation and the integration of various musical traditions, marking him as a key figure in avant-garde jazz.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ornette Coleman· Sun Ra· Henry Threadgill
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Side One, Cut One: Z WBN D3B/Side One, Cut Two: H-46M B-BW4 Start here 21:48
- 2 Side Two, Cut One: 84° Kelvin---G 7:38
- 3 Side Two, Cut Two: C-M = B05---7 10:38
Disc 2
- 1 Side Three, Cut One: 72° Kelvin---L/Side Three, Cut Two: 337-4 46842 BFG-12 23:49
- 2 Side Four, Cut One: 29 M 36 23:34
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Space Is the Place
Sun Ra
Explores avant-garde jazz fusion with cosmic themes and improvisational freedom.
The Shape of Jazz to Come
Ornette Coleman
Shares a similar commitment to free improvisation and challenges traditional jazz structures.
In Praise of Learning
Henry Cow
Merges avant-garde sensibilities with complex compositions and a strong political undertone.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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