Valve No. 10 cover

Valve No. 10

Billy Bang · 1988

47 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of improvisational jazz, blending complex harmonies with emotive violin lines in a captivating dialogue.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Valve No. 10 — The title track serves as a centerpiece, demonstrating Bang's virtuosity on the violin while engaging in intricate call-and-response patterns with fellow musicians.
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    Lonnie’s Lament — This piece highlights Bang's ability to evoke deep emotion through nuanced phrasing and dynamic interplay, making it a standout example of his expressive style.
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    Bien-Hoa Blues — Infused with a poignant sense of nostalgia, this track blends blues influences with jazz sensibilities, reflecting Bang's personal experiences and cultural heritage.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • captivating improvisational dialogues
  • emotionally resonant violin lines
  • dynamic shifts in pacing
  • thoughtful afternoon listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer structured, predictable music
  • want instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1988, Valve No. 10 marked Billy Bang's emergence as a significant voice in avant-garde jazz, following his work with the String Trio of New York. This album came after his acclaimed 1985 release, Vietnam: The Aftermath, showcasing his continued exploration of personal and political themes through innovative compositions.
Stylistic neighbors
David Murray· Henry Threadgill· William Hooker

Tracklist

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

  • 1 P.M. 5:46
  • 2 Valve No. 10 9:13
  • 3 September 23rd 5:49
  • 4 Improvisation for Four 4:09
  • 5 Bien-Hoa Blues 4:56
  • 6 Holiday for Flowers 5:28
  • 7 Lonnie’s Lament 12:16

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata