Unveiling ‘NOW JAZZ NOW’: A Collaborative Vision

More than a simple list, NOW JAZZ NOW is the result of a compelling artistic collaboration. Thurston Moore joins forces with acclaimed musicians Mats Gustafsson, Neneh Cherry, and Joe McPhee, alongside respected music writer Byron Coley, to present a 277-page volume steeped in personal passion and historical insight. The project isn’t merely a catalog; it’s a curated journey through the collectors’ obsessions and the sonic landscapes that defined a generation.

The book delves into the visual and tactile world of record collecting, featuring extensive album art, label designs, and original sleeve notes. It’s a celebration of the physical artifact alongside the music itself, offering a glimpse into the dedication and artistry that surrounded these recordings. What makes a record truly *essential*? This book attempts to answer that question through the lens of those who lived and breathed this music.

The period between 1960 and 1980 witnessed a radical shift in jazz, moving away from traditional structures and embracing improvisation, experimentation, and a spirit of unrestrained creativity. This era birthed a sound that continues to influence musicians across genres today. But how did these recordings initially impact listeners, and how do they resonate with audiences now?

Moore’s Ecstatic Peace Library, known for its commitment to avant-garde and experimental music, is the ideal home for this project. The imprint has consistently championed artists who push boundaries and challenge conventions, making NOW JAZZ NOW a natural extension of its artistic ethos.

Pre-orders for NOW JAZZ NOW: 100 Essential Free Jazz & Improvisation Recordings [1960-80] are now available at Ecstatic Peace Library’s website. The book officially launches on December 5th.

Beyond the core list of 100 recordings, the book promises to offer a broader understanding of the cultural and artistic forces that shaped free jazz. It’s a resource for seasoned collectors and newcomers alike, offering a gateway into a world of sonic innovation and artistic freedom.

The collaborative nature of this project is particularly noteworthy. Bringing together musicians and a writer ensures a multifaceted perspective, blending technical expertise with personal anecdotes and critical analysis. This approach elevates NOW JAZZ NOW beyond a mere historical document and transforms it into a vibrant, living testament to the power of free jazz.

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘NOW JAZZ NOW’

• What makes NOW JAZZ NOW different from other jazz history books?

  NOW JAZZ NOW distinguishes itself through its collaborative approach, featuring insights from musicians alongside a respected music writer, and its focus on the collector’s experience, including album art and sleeve notes.

• Who are the key contributors to the NOW JAZZ NOW project?

  The project is a collaboration between Thurston Moore, Mats Gustafsson, Neneh Cherry, Joe McPhee, and Byron Coley.

• What period of free jazz does NOW JAZZ NOW cover?

  The book focuses on essential recordings from the period between 1960 and 1980.

• Where can I pre-order NOW JAZZ NOW?

  You can pre-order the book directly from the Ecstatic Peace Library website.

• Is NOW JAZZ NOW suitable for those new to free jazz?

  Yes, the book is designed to be accessible to both seasoned collectors and those new to the genre, offering a curated introduction to essential recordings.