Three Day Moon cover

Three Day Moon

Barre Phillips · 1978

41 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A freewheeling exploration of sound, blending intricate improvisation with a captivating interplay between bass and silence.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    A-i-a — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its extended exploration of tonal textures and rhythmic variations that highlight Phillips' technical prowess.
  • →
    Ms. P. — In this track, Phillips introduces a lyrical quality through his playing, creating a dialogue between melody and rhythm that captures the essence of his style.
  • →
    S. C. & W. — This piece exemplifies the album's improvisational focus, as Phillips engages in a dynamic exchange with silence and sound, inviting listeners into a deeply reflective space.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • immersive soundscapes for deep listening
  • patient explorations that unfold gradually
  • introspective moments for reflection
  • spontaneous improvisation with dynamic shifts

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer structured song formats

Where this album fits

Career context
When Barre Phillips released 'Three Day Moon' in 1978, he was already an established figure in the avant-garde jazz scene, known for his innovative use of double bass. This album followed his earlier work, including 1971's 'Journal Violone', marking a period where Phillips sought to push the boundaries of jazz improvisation further. At this point in his career, he was also beginning to gain recognition internationally for his contributions to the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Evan Parker· Joëlle Léandre· William Hooker

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • A-i-a

    Phillips shifts from rapid runs to drawn-out notes creates a stark contrast that captivates attention.

    This structural choice emphasizes the tension between movement and stillness, reflecting Phillips' mastery over pacing and dynamics.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 A-i-a 9:37
  • 2 Ms. P. 4:58
  • 3 La Folle 5:17
  • 4 Brd 8:35
  • 5 Ingul-Buz 3:54
  • 6 S. C. & W. 9:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata