https://wadadaleosmith1.bandcamp.com/album/fire-illuminations
Free Jazz
Rating: World Treasure
released March 31, 2023
It’s very hard to listen to this and not think of fusion era Miles.
I’m going to cheat a little bit and copy and paste the personel from All About Jazz:
Personnel
Wadada Leo Smith: trumpet; Nels Cline: guitar, electric; Brandon Ross: guitar; Lamar Smith: guitar, electric; Bill Laswell: bass; Melvin Gibbs: bass, electric; Mauro Refosco: percussion; Pheeroan AkLaff: drums; Hardedge: electronics.
Additional Instrumentation
Nels Cline: electric guitar (1, 4, 5); Brandon Ross: electric guitar (1, 4); Lamar Smith: electric guitar (1-4); Mauro Refosco: percussion (1-3); Hardedge: electronics: 1, 4).
source: https://www.allaboutjazz.com/fire-illuminations-wadada-leo-smith-kabell-records
Actually, I recommend clicking because it’s a smart review.
Wadada Leo Smith is jazz royalty and stunning proof that for some 84 is the new 34 (at least artistically). Mostly, he works as a leader but has sideman credits with two fellow greats: Anthony Braxton and Roscoe Mitchell. I consider Smith Braxton’s equal and just a smudge under Mitchell who I love so much. There’s certainly a lot to explore if you’re new to Smith’s discography. I think a great starting place is Spiritual Dimensions as well as right here. The two albums certainly compliment each other and they’re both on Spotify. Putting them together and letting it shuffle on repeat would make an excellent sonic backdrop good for at least a week. Hell, add the four hour complete Bitches Brew session. This is in no way inferior and if that doesn’t tell you how great this music is put it together, smoke one if that’s your thing, and enjoy. You’re in for a treat.
Warmth Highest 