Mondo Jazz

The third CD by Zorn’s most intimate 21st century ensemble The Gnostic Trio features these three master musicians tighter than ever. Lush and lyrical, Frisell really opens up adding a level of subtle nuance and beauty to the shimmering tones of harp and vibraphone. Subtitled "Visions from the Walled Garden of William Blake", In Lambeth celebrates the remarkable work of this legendary Romantic poet, artist and philosopher, presenting nine gorgeous compositions capturing the innocence, open heart, transcendent wisdom and subtle melancholy of one of the world’s most beloved visionaries.
(Release date: Oct 2013)

Drawing upon traditions from plainchant, mediaeval ars nova, Renaissance madrigals, 20th century vocal techniques and minimalism, Zorn’s music for a cappella voice is some of his most personal and beloved creations. This is the definitive recording of his sublime, transcendent and radiant work inspired by the seductive lyricism of the world’s oldest known erotic verse. Recorded by The Sapphites, the same all-star quintet that recorded Zorn’s first a cappella masterwork Frammenti del Sappho in 2004, and the soon to be released Holy Visions, this is a sensual evocation of King Solomon’s poetic aphrodisiac The Song of Songs, bathed in a gorgeous package replete with erotic fragrance and a sprig of myrrh.
(Release date: Nov 2013)

John Zorn and Bill Laswell are two of the downtown scene's most consistently intrepid musical explorers, and PainKiller, formed in 1991 is their longest running project together. The Prophecy, the first official PainKiller release in over ten years, was recorded live in Europe in 2004–5 and pulls together music from several concerts into a powerful and mind blowing suite unlike anything the group has ever released before. Featuring master drummer Yoshida Tatsuya (Ruins, Korekyojin) who has worked with Zorn and Laswell off and on since the mid-’80s, the music takes on a mercurial, unpredictable edge. One epic hour long suite surrounded by two short hardcore blasts of searing intensity, The Prophecy is music of great mystical power from one of the most unique sax-bass-drums trios ever assembled.
(Release date: Nov 2013)

Another installment of spectacular chamber pieces written for some of the greatest new music performers in the US today! Written as a companion piece to Walpurgisnacht (2004), All Hallows’ Eve is a tour de force in three movements for string trio—satanic counterpoint for the Witches’ Sabbath. Written as a gift to the ICE ensemble, Zorn wrote The Tempest as a musical reading of Shakespeare’s mystical and engmatic last play. Finally, the virtuosic Chicago based Fifth House ensemble performs Zorn’s mini-piano concerto in the form of a philosophical dialogue between St. Anthony and his tormentors. Three piece of magic and religious mysticism from downtown alchemist John Zorn performed by a new generation of musical masters!
(Release date: Nov 2013)

This DVD presents a rare and powerful solo performance by one of the most important and original artists in the world. Recorded in 1980 at a studio out on Long Island, Meredith is in full voice, relaxed and creatively inspired by a small audience of Monk cogniscenti. Recorded with a 3-camera shoot and then put on the shelf, Tzadik is proud to present the first release of this astonishing virtuoso solo performance. Featuring acappella compositions as well as pieces where she accompanies herself on the piano, this is an intimate view of this remarkable and sensitive Renaissance woman.
(Release date: Oct 2013)

A musician of remarkable skills and versatility, Marco has been a vital member of the Downtown scene since 2004. This exciting trio project inspired by the popular crime novels of Maurizio de Giovanni brilliantly synthesizes minimalism, jazz, Italian folk music, contemporary classical, film soundtracks and more into a dramatic and evocative new music. Featuring two of the most talented and original musicians in the downtown scene: Ken Filiano and Satoshi Takeishi, this is a fantastically imaginative program of music filled with catchy melodies, fiery solos, unusual textures, virtuosity, humor and more.
(Release date: Oct 2013)

Scuba Diver, underwater photographer, world traveler, film producer and guitarist extraordinaire, Henry Kaiser has been a central figure in the Bay Area music scene since the late 1970s. A member of the first generation of American free improvisers, his style is completely unique and touches on Rock, Blues, World Music, Folk, Jazz, Classical and so much more. Here he steps out on his own for a solo guitar album that pays tribute to a handful of heroes who have tragically died in the past few years. A heartfelt and touching program of “requia” for solo guitar by this always surprising American Maverick.
(Release date: Nov 2013)

Suphala is one of the most creative and innovative musicians in Indian music. A student of Ustad Allarakha and Ustad Zakir Hussain, she has performed with many of the greatest names in Indian Classical music as well as pop musicians like Norah Jones, Sean Lennon and Vernon Reid. Her work reflects a diverse background and touches upon jazz, pop, soul, Western and Indian Classical music and more. This CD is a fascinating collection of grooves, compositions and improvisations with some of her most illustrious collaborators and features a fabulous remix by Downtown legend Bill Laswell.
(Release date: Oct 2013)