The String Quartets
John Zorn · 1999
64 min · 16 tracks · avant-garde jazz
An intricate tapestry of avant-garde strings, blending improvisation with classical forms in a hauntingly dynamic exploration.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic interplay of themes wave-like pacing with contrasts immersive exploration of sound
- Context
- By the time John Zorn released 'The String Quartets' in 1999, he was already an established figure in the avant-garde and experimental music scenes. This album followed his earlier works that often combined various genres, showcasing his diverse compositional style and solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
- If you like
- avant-garde jazz
The String Quartets is an album by John Zorn, released in 1999. An intricate tapestry of avant-garde strings, blending improvisation with classical forms in a hauntingly dynamic exploration. 'The String Quartets' is notable for its innovative approach to string composition, influencing contemporary classical and avant-garde musicians. The album exemplifies Zorn's ability to merge complex structures with emotional depth, garnering critical acclaim and enhancing his stature in both jazz and classical circles. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The String Quartets sound like?
An intricate tapestry of avant-garde strings, blending improvisation with classical forms in a hauntingly dynamic exploration. Rooted in avant-garde jazz.
What makes The String Quartets by John Zorn notable?
'The String Quartets' is notable for its innovative approach to string composition, influencing contemporary classical and avant-garde musicians. The album exemplifies Zorn's ability to merge complex structures with emotional depth, garnering critical acclaim and enhancing his stature in both jazz and classical circles. By the time John Zorn released 'The String Quartets' in 1999, he was already an established figure in the avant-garde and experimental music scenes. This album followed his earlier works that often combined various genres, showcasing his diverse compositional style and solidifying his reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
Who is The String Quartets for?
The String Quartets works well if you're into dynamic interplay of themes, wave-like pacing with contrasts and immersive exploration of sound.
How many songs are on The String Quartets?
The String Quartets has 16 tracks, running approximately 64 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Cat o’ Nine Tails Standout 13:56
- 2 The Dead Man: I. Variations 1:04
- 3 The Dead Man: II. Sonatas 0:41
- 4 The Dead Man: III. Manifesto 0:49
- 5 The Dead Man: IV. Fanfare 0:56
- 6 The Dead Man: V. Meditation 0:53
- 7 The Dead Man: VI. Rondo 0:47
- 8 The Dead Man: VII. Romance 0:30
- 9 The Dead Man: VIII. Blossoms 1:07
- 10 The Dead Man: IX. Fantasy 0:52
- 11 The Dead Man: X. Folio 1:15
- 12 The Dead Man: XI. Nocturne 1:38
- 13 The Dead Man: XII. Etude 0:40
- 14 The Dead Man: XIII. Prelude 1:22
- 15 Memento Mori Standout 29:22
- 16 Kol Nidre Standout 8:22
Release Date
January 1, 1999
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
64 min 23 sec
Learn More
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.
