Get ready for some of the most beautiful music Zorn has ever made! The Gnostic Preludes is the latest volume in the mystical quest of In Search of the Miraculous, The Goddess and At the Gates of Paradise. Here Zorn turns to chamber music simplicity with an intimate ensemble of harp, vibraphone and guitar inspired by Early Music, Debussy, the minimalism of Reich, Riley and Glass and esoteric spiritual traditions from around the world. The music is lyrical and hypnotic, perfect for early morning meditation, a lonely afternoon, or midnight contemplation. Performed with great feeling by long time Zorn collaborators Bill Frisell, Carol Emanuel and Kenny Wollesen, who interact with sensitivity and grace The Gnostic Preludes is one of Zorn's most tender and subtle creations.
D**R
The Sound of Butterflies
"The Gnostic Preludes" fits in well with John Zorn's recent output of melodic music. This project can be thought of as a Zorn album written for guitarist Bill Frisell. Frisell is in good company with Carol Emanuel on harp and Kenny Wollesen on the vibes. Wollesen also plays orchestral bells that work well in small doses. "The Gnostic Preludes" is reminiscent of Zorn's " The Goddess - Music For The Ancient Of Days ." Along these lines, classical and jazz aesthetics playfully mingle for a forty-eight minute meditation. So when compared to projects like the Book of Angels, some may find the ambiance of "The Gnostic Preludes" a bit bland. While best suited for the background, it is a good soundtrack for contemplative moments. When appreciated for what it is, "The Gnostic Preludes" delivers, but it falls short when compared to the its sequels. Indeed, " The Mysteries ," " In Lambeth ," and " Transmigration of the Magus " redeem the shortcomings of this freshman album. Still, this is peaceful, relaxing music. The highlight may be prelude 5: 'Music Of The Spheres.' While lacking hooks, the Middle Eastern inspired melodies are always sweet. The compositions, arrangements and performances are loose and light. In this sense, the playful music can easily be envisioned as three delightfully colored butterflies, musically flitting about in John Zorn's garden. How beautiful!
T**X
The beginning of a great band.
As far as I know, this is the first pairing of the Gnostic Trio. If you look for them under Gnostic Trio, you won't find them. The sound of electric guitar, harp, and Vibes is a match made in heaven. John Zorn the composer and producer gets all the credit here. There are other Gnostic Trio recordings which followed. I wish their name was on the front cover so other listeners or potential listeners could find their other recordings more easily. How about " ZORN's GNOSTIC TRIO". If they re issue these, and I hope they do, The group of Bill Frisell, Carol Emanuel, and Kenny Wollesen will be acknowledged for a series of terrific recordings.
R**Z
Zorn+Frisell=Amazing & beautiful music
I was still marvelling at the subtle and layered Mount Analogue cd when I received this Gnostic Preludes and I was blown away inmediately.. As a long time both Frisell and Zorn fan I find this new collaboration simply amazing. If you either like Zorn's last mystical music or Frisell's personal playing, you'll love this cd. One of Zorn's best in.. Well, I was going to say in years, but with Zorn's output that's not true.. For me, the best since Interzone, another highlight from recent months.Let's hope Frisell gets a Masada book 2 cd soon..
M**N
FRISELL PLAY ZORN
Is not the first time that Frisell play Zorn. They begin whith Naked City and after years they play the sakes songs. This album is unique. I love the Masada books and this one in particular.After years Frisell and Zorn are again together. Is real great. Acustic sound. Fisell in one of his better CD in years and the composition of Zorn. Music more than sound. Pure feelings . Please don't miss this opportunity . Great, simple great. Nothing that remember the old Naked City times.Simple beauty, but great
D**R
Transcendental Beauty
I am struck speechless by this CD. Truly some of the most beautiful music I've heard, maybe ever. I'm a long-time fan of Mr. Zorn at his most unlistenable (to some) -- and Bill Frissel is one of the finest musicians currently living. With Carol Emanuel and Kenny Wolleson, the arrangements are moving - even heart-wrenching -- and luminous. Okay, I know this is a lot of hyperbole, but is it hyperbole if it is all true?? Buy this album and grow your heart and mind and spirit even larger.
M**A
etheric
I have a difficult relationship with Zorn. I love some of his works, the musical ones and I hate the rubbish he does at times.This work is almost sublime: it makes you think, it relaxes, it opens the mind.
H**Y
Utterly joyful music
Utterly joyful music. All the Gnostic Trio releases are wonderful, but this one may shine the brightest.
J**R
one of those compulsive albums
there have been a few albums like this over the years. Just end up on repeat play...I arrived through another John Zorn album which was great, but this has to be very high on my compulsive play list
J**S
Five Stars
Will make the recipient happy.
A**I
Five Stars
very good
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