Challenging innovative improvisation Miya Masaoka, Zeena Parkins, Myra Melford – MZM: If your listening tastes run to “normal” music, this may not be your cup of tea… I’ve been a big fan of pianist Myra Melford ever since I first met her (way, WAY back in the day) here in Olympia, Washington. The music this trio produces is some of the most challenging and innovative improvisation you will ever listen to. You’ll hear Miya Masaoka – 21-string Koto, Zeena Parkins – Electric Harp, Electronics and Myra Melford – Acoustic and Prepared Piano in all their improvising glory.
Though I didn’t find LIVE performances of the tunes on the album, when you SUBSCRIBE to the Myra Melford topic channel on YouTube, you can listen to the songs from the release. This album was originally released in 2017, but was re-issued on March 1st, 2020, and is a tribute to David Wessel, their dear friend and colleague.
Songs like the deeply moving “Saturn” will transport you to the outer reaches (and back again) in only four minutes and fifty-five seconds… Zeena’s electronics and Miya’s Koto are supported brilliantly by Myra’s keyboards on this (literally) stellar piece!
The Koto intro on “Spiral” keeps your thoughts moving in most pleasant fashion; the recording on this piece is flawless, and will send chills up & down your spine… late-night jazz/improv DJ’s will be spinning this frequently.
My choice for personal favorite of the ten tantalizing tracks offered up, though, is the 6:37 “Eight-Burst“… flashes of light will be revealed in crystal-clear fashion as you move through the sonic wormhole this magnificent trio creates for you!
I give MZM a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED rating, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) score of 4.99 for this very collectible improvised recording. Get more information on the band’s BandCamp page. Rotcod Zzaj
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