AT THE MOUNTAINS OF MADNESS (ELECTRIC MASADA)

This is one of those recordings that needs to be heard to be believed. I'll quote the press release. "ELECTRIC MASADA combines the raw power and manic speed of NAKED CITY, the improvisational edge of COBRA and the spiritual lyricism of the Masada song book. Their second release captures them at the end of a long European tour at the very peak of their powers. Tight as a drum and as hot as a blowtorch, these two incredible live performances will leave you breathless. Astonishing group conductons, searing solos and crazed insanity from one of the most amazing bands Zorn has ever had."

And what a lineup! Two drummers plus a percussionist, guitar, keyboards, electronics, bass and sax. An eight piece that was not only was in tune with each other, but with Zorn, who with hand signals would change the direction of a song in real time. So while it may seem redundant to have two shows on this recording with pretty much the same tracks, these tracks are different enough to make both shows essential. And I like that I can grab one disc or the other to listen to, it doesn't matter, both are off the charts. Disc one is the 2004 show from Moscow, and disc two from the 2004 show from the capital of Slovenia.

I am just starting to get familiar with the musicians involved with Zorn's various projects. And of course I've seen these musicians pop up in different like-minded bands as well like MR BUNGLE, SECRET CHIEFS 3 etc. The music here is a combination of Klezmer, Avant, Free jazz, Brutal Prog and more. I like the change of pace as well. It's not all in your face, but we get space and mellow sections as well. A nice balance. Guitarist Marc Ribot gave the performance of his life here I think. So impressive. Zorn is often doing his best Pharoah Sanders impression.

My favourite track from the Moscow show is "Kedem". The electronics and atmosphere to start. Sax after 2 minutes and it does get a little crazy. A trippy section takes over then it turns more powerful 7 minutes in. It settles again with electric piano over top. So good! Just grooving then a calm 11 minutes in. The guitar comes in lighting up the soundscape then the sax returns around 14 minutes in.

As far as the Slovenia show I have to go with the opener called "Tefukah", and it's the longest piece on this whole recording at 18 staggering minutes. Mind you there are five more tracks on this double disc that are around 15 minutes in length. This one opens with some heaviness and rumbling drums, upfront guitar before Zorn comes in screaming. Intense. Well, until the electric piano takes over but the intensity returns before 8 minutes. More screaming sax and ripping guitar to follow as this plays out.

An incredible recording that is both trippy and very powerful. I do like hearing the audience's reactions as well. A stunning live document.