Since her emergence in the 1980s as one of
Anthony Braxton
's most inspired colleagues, pianist
Marilyn Crispell
has devoted her life to the art of intuitive, freely improvised music. In 2009,
Leo Records
released
Collaborations
, a richly rewarding compilation of material from quartet and quintet dates she led in 2004 and 2007, which illuminates her creative involvement with some of Scandinavia's most promising young improvisers. As heard on the first two tracks, the quartet is perhaps a bit edgier, as the unit is strongly fortified by the presence of reedman
Fredrik Ljungkvist
and drummer
Paal Nilssen-Love
. These men are members of the feisty Norwegian/Swedish group
Atomic
, and have also worked with the accomplished, contemporary multi-instrumentalist
Per Texas Johansson
. Trumpeter
Magnus Broo
, who harmonizes well with
Lars-Golan-Ulander
in the quintet, is also affiliated with the
band. This exciting, adventuresome music is highly recommended for anyone who loves the sounds of collective improvisation and wishes to stay in touch with the marvelous artistry of
. ~ arwulf arwulf