A record of incredible beauty – and hardly what you'd expect to hear from John Zorn! The set's a gentle batch of instrumentals – penned with almost an ear for the ancient, although delivered in ways that also owe something to contemporary acoustic recordings as well – a blend that would already be compelling enough on its own, but which is even more amazing coming from Zorn! There's no sax at all on the set – Zorn's role here is only as composer – and music is handled by the great trio of Bill Frisell on guitar, Kenny Wolleson on vibes and bells, and Carol Emanuel on harp – a musical blend that's filled with warmly ringing tones that are mighty nice. Titles include "The Middle Pillar", "The Book Of Pleasure", "The Invisibles", "Sign & Sigil", and "Diatesseron". (Jazz, Out Sound) CD

One of the freshest string quartets we've heard in years – a group of young musicians with roots in many different styles, coming together in a really evocative way – and with a sound that's free from any gimmicks or tricks! In the years since Kronos, there's been lots of messing with the string quartet format – to the point where it's almost a joke at times – but these guys show that there's plenty of new life to be brought to the form, without resorting to kitschy cover versions or too oft-tread territory! The music is from a great range of talents – including jazz musicians like Bill Frisell, Ethan Iverson, and Vijay Iyer – but the group's presentation is very unique, and makes a diverse array of compositions come together with a distinctly Americanist take on the format – one that is quite far from the European roots of the string quartet, but still deeply respectful of the musicianship required. Titles include "Necessary Henry", "Simpson's Gap", "Five Legged Cat", "Exit", "Morris Dance", "John Steinbeck", "Ping Pong Fumble Thaw", "Dig The Say", and "Show Me". CD

The first, and arguably the best, of John Zorn's Naked City albums. The sound is extremely intense, and represents a blinding blend of influences, most of which Zorn had been showcasing in more easy going settings on previous albums. The core group includes Bill Frisell, Wayne Horvitz, Fred Frith, and Joey Baron – plus a guest appearance by Yamatsuka Eye. Hard to find on vinyl, and with the titles "Demon Sanctuary", "Speedball", "James Bond Theme", "Ingenous Ejaculation", "I Want To Live", and "Latin Quarter". (Jazz, Out Sound) CD

Includes material by Franz Koglmann and John Zorn with George Lewis and Bill Frisell. (Jazz, Out Sound) CD