Lesley Mok Embraces Impulse and Sonic Manipulation
While Lesley Mok has benefited from the spirit of collaboration, this “solo” album presents her unfiltered musical mind on a solitary, deeply enjoyable ride.
avant-garde
Jim Nollman: The Man Who Jams With Orcas
Jim Nollman is an avant-garde sound artist, guitarist and naturalist whose work stands at the intersection of John Cage, Marcel Duchamp and Jacques Cousteau.
Tyshawn Sorey Triumphantly Renews a 1968 Jazz Classic by Max Roach
Tyshawn Sorey convenes a searing band for his refraction and elevation of Max Roach’s original Members Don’t Git Weary, and the result is a fresh message for 2026.
Alden Hellmuth Excels on Her Astonishing New Album
Alden Hellmuth is both blazing trails and paying tribute to the past, resulting in what may very well be the finest jazz album of the year so far.
Olaf Rupp’s Latest Adventure in Avant-Garde Solo Guitar
Olaf Rupp’s Fuzzy Logic is yet another fascinating release in the Palilalia Records catalog, and his work here is impressive and deeply satisfying.
Horse Lords Expand Their Sound on Hypnotic Album
There is a beautifully down-to-earth aspect to Horse Lords’ new LP and they are confident in their signature sound while still finding ways to keep it fresh and unique.
The Street Photography Nature of Solo Improvisational Music
Bill MacKay, Douglas McCombs, and Tashi Dorji’s improvisational music mirrors Garry Winogrand’s street photography.
Laurie Anderson Helps Us Face Catastrophe on Live LP
Laurie Anderson has created a rare live album worth listening to from start to finish, both for the music and all the interstices.
When Cecil Taylor’s Free Jazz Was at Its Peak
“This music is of biblical importance in many ways for fans of Cecil Taylor and the avant-garde. It was captured at an exciting time in his career.” – Zev Feldman
Emil Mark Brings Minimalism to the Pipe Organ
With Mellemtid, Danish composer Emil Mark updates an older instrument, pipe organs, with modern technology in a minimalist approach.
Phew and Danielle de Picciotto Create Shape-Shifting Sound
Phew and Danielle de Picciotto create music that expands and contracts constantly, so transparent at times that it’s barely there at all.
Xiu Xiu’s Jamie Stewart Is All Covered Up on New Record
Born from a cover-song subscription model, Xiu Xiu’s latest album unearths the raw humanity in pop confections. Jamie Stewart discusses this and more.