Anthony Braxton & Derek Bailey - Moment Précieux

This one is a real treat: two giants of improvisation in pursuit of that enigmatic 'something' on a Canadian stage in 1986. Braxton, clearly derived from the jazz tradition; Bailey, restless occupant of a self-constructed world of non-idiomatic guitar. "Moment Precieux" was an instant improv classic upon its release twelve years ago and is a welcome reissue to CD format. Two long improvisations provide an illuminating view of these mercurial musicians. Bailey's spiky tones, chordal shards and strange harmonics are a source of constant wonder as Braxton's acidulous horn careers forth, spinning wildly into liquid motion and timbral extremes. "Spontaneity, attention, urgency", to quote Art Lange's accompanying notes, are the treasures available to us. Emotion and tranquility are also here. Emptying one's mind of preconceived notions of what true creativity should sound like is the key to experiencing the many delights of this great concert in full". Matt Krieg

Recorded live at the IV Festival International de Musique Actuelle de Victoriaville (October 4, 1986) for the radio program "Jazz Sur le Vif."

1. The Victoria And Albertville Suite Part I 23:31
2. The Victoria And Albertville Suite Part II 24:35