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4 (ensemble) Compositions - 1992

by Anthony Braxton

supported by
Len van der Wolf
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willem minderhout
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Daniel Karrer
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Robert Bresnan
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Jass Hoar
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1.
Composition 100 15:41
2.
Composition 96 10:16
3.
Composition 164 23:09
4.
Composition 163 24:09

about

"...a combination of brand new compositions' numbers 163 and 164 with a fascinating performance of the pivotal Composition No. 96." (source: The Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD)

"Two of the compositions on this recording were written around 1980, two in 1992, but all are representative of the more "classical" side of Braxton's work. Unlike several previously recorded examples of this facet of his oeuvre, however, an ensemble made up largely of jazz musicians is utilized and, partially as a result, this is one of his most successful orchestral albums. The instrumental palette also contributes to the luscious and rich sound with a group consisting of winds, accordions, an organ, and a percussion section of vibes, marimbas, and steel drums.
"Composition 96," for example, had been recorded by a student orchestra in 1981 (Composition 96, Leo Records) where it retained a slightly academic tinge. Here, in a shortened version, it opens up and breathes with the fine organ work of Amina Claudine Myers featured prominently. Elsewhere, the twin accordions of Guy Klucevsek and Ted Reichman are in the fore, providing colors not usually associated with Braxton. In the reed section, he shows a predilection for clarinets that also serves to amplify the creamy, liquid sound world achieved here. Additionally, it seems clear that Braxton allowed room for improvisation (though it's difficult to ascertain exactly when this is the case), which, of course, adds life and passion to the proceedings. It should be noted that Braxton conducts the ensemble but does not perform on this album.
Listeners who might be cautious about the more arcane aspects of his work will find a relatively accessible introduction to Braxton's "classical" leanings herein as will others interested in the state of contemporary, creative orchestral writing. A rewarding, challenging effort." (source: AllMusic.com, B. Olewnick)

1. Composition No. 100
2. Composition No. 96
3. Composition No. 164
4. Composition No. 163

All music by Anthony Braxton

credits

released August 7, 2026

Anthony Braxton ( Saxophone, Conductor )
Don Byron ( Bass Clarinet )
Guy Klucevsek ( Accordion )
Jay Hoggard ( Marimba )
John Rapson ( Trombone )
Lynden Achee ( Drums Steel )
Marty Ehrlich ( Piccolo, Flute, Clarinet, Sax )
Randy McKean ( Bass Clarinet )
Robert Rumboltz ( Trumpet )
Roland Dahinden ( Trombone )
Ted Reichman ( Accordion )
Warren Smith ( Percussion, Vibes )
J. D. Parran ( Clarinet )
Amina Claudine Myers ( Piano, Harpsichord )

Producer – Flavio Bonandrini
Engineer – John Rosenberg
Engineer [Assistant] – Fred Kevorkian
Studio di registrazione – Sear Sound
Mastered By – Gennaro Corone
Masterizzato presso – PhonoComp
Artwork [Cover Art] – Niridan
Liner Notes – Art Lange
Photography By – Elena Carminati

Recorded on December 5, 1992 and March 16, 1993 at Sear Sound, NY.
Mastered at PhonoComp, Tribiano, Milano

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Black Saint Rome, Italy

Black Saint was established in 1975 by Giacomo Pelliciotti and devoted to recording avant-garde musicians who might not have an opportunity elsewhere.
The labels specialize in avant-garde jazz stemming from the free jazz tradition.

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