Legendary jazz saxophonist and composer David Murray, a pioneering force in the world of jazz and improvised music, unveils his new album Birdly Serenade. Marking his debut with the iconic Impulse! Records, this eagerly anticipated release showcases Murray’s masterful blend of innovation and tradition. The album drops on April 25, 2025, and features new compositions inspired by one of the original improvisers of the natural world: birds.
At nearly fifty years into his remarkable career, Murray’s Birdly Serenade brings a fresh and unique direction, yet stays firmly rooted in the bold and expansive sound that has defined his music. Although Murray has appeared on hundreds of albums as a leader and collaborator, Birdly Serenade cements his place in the pantheon of jazz greats and solidifies his reputation as a visionary composer.
A New Chapter in Murray’s Legacy
The album also marks an important milestone for Murray as it’s his first time recording at the legendary Van Gelder Studio. It is his second collaboration with the all-star trio of pianist Marta Sánchez, bassist Luke Stewart, and drummer Russell Carter, following their successful album Francesca, which was lauded by The New York Times as one of the best jazz albums of 2024.
Produced by Randall Poster (known for his work on The Wolf of Wall Street, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and School of Rock) and Stewart Lerman (who’s collaborated with artists like Elvis Costello and Sharon Van Etten), Birdly Serenade is part of the GRAMMY-winning Birdsong Project. This ongoing project, which highlights the intersection of music and bird conservation, has already featured contributions from a diverse array of musicians, including Yo-Yo Ma, Mark Ronson, and The Flaming Lips.
Murray's Birdly Serenade comes at a time when the Birdsong Project has gained momentum, collaborating with key partners like the National Audubon Society, Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, and more to raise awareness for bird conservation efforts.
Randall Poster on David Murray’s Impact
GRAMMY Award-winning producer Randall Poster shared his thoughts on Murray’s album, saying, “The Birdsong Project is honored to present this birdly serenade by David Murray and his genius quartet. Inspired by a world of birds, the music on these recordings is overflowing with Murray magnificence. David’s writing and playing are incomparable. He and the band take flight again and again, like the birds we love.”
Murray’s Quartet: A New Generation of Jazz Innovators
Over the last few years, Murray has been on the road with his dynamic new quartet, a group of younger, highly talented musicians that bring their unique perspectives to the project. The process of touring together has been inspiring for Murray, who calls his band members “top-flight musicians.” Through their contributions, the music has developed its own distinct personality, shaped by both Murray’s leadership and the individual creativity of the band. As a result, the sound on Birdly Serenade is vibrant and dynamic, the product of an evolving and ever-growing musical conversation.
Murray notes, “The music has a way of shaping itself live. The band has come to have its own personality, based on both my leadership and their dexterity as musicians. Whatever knowledge that was imparted to me during my learning period, I’m imparting to them.”
A Timeless Legacy
David Murray’s prodigious output and ambitious vision have made him one of jazz’s most influential figures. His career spans decades, with hundreds of albums and performances across the globe. He has played with jazz legends like McCoy Tyner and James Blood Ulmer, and co-founded the acclaimed World Saxophone Quartet. Recognized with numerous awards, including a GRAMMY and the prestigious Guggenheim Award, Murray’s versatility and willingness to bridge the gap between avant-garde and classic jazz traditions have made him a true elder statesman of the genre.
Tracklist for Birdly Serenade
- Birdly Serenade (feat. Ekep Nkwelle)
- Bald Ego
- Song Of The World (for Mixashawn Rozie) (feat. Ekep Nkwelle)
- Black Bird’s Gonna Lite Up The Night
- Nonna’s Last Flight
- Capistrano Swallow
- Bird’s The Word
- Oiseau du paradis (feat. Francesca Cinelli)
No comments:
Post a Comment