Press Release: Mary Halvorson Captivates with ‘About Ghosts’
Renowned New York composer and guitarist Mary Halvorson has once again pushed the boundaries of jazz with her latest album, About Ghosts. This record features an expanded version of her acclaimed Amaryllis ensemble, which previously released the standout jazz album Cloudward in 2024. The lineup includes familiar faces Adam O’Farrill on trumpet, Jacob Garchik on trombone, Patricia Brennan on vibraphone, Nick Dunston on bass, and Tomas Fujiwara on drums, now enriched by the dynamic contributions of alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins and tenor saxophonist Brian Settles.
The addition of these two instrumentalists adds a fresh tonal depth to Halvorson’s characteristic sound, blending intricate brass fanfares and abstract improvisation. The album opens with “Full of Neon,” a captivating introduction that showcases the ensemble’s versatility, transitioning from march-like percussion to lively horn dialogues.
Tracks like “Carved From” illustrate Halvorson’s ability to meld structured melodies with spontaneous improvisation, featuring a stunning interplay between her guitar and Wilkins’ soaring saxophone. The music here thrives on its internal complexities, where melodies play off rhythm patterns and harmonies evoke both jazz tradition and contemporary classical influences.
The album unfolds with tracks like the tender title piece, which evolves into an exploratory improvisation and the graceful “Eventidal,” a ballad driven by guitar and vibraphone. Halvorson’s music resonates with an innate ability to blend “the weird with the beautiful,” echoing her admiration for British artist Robert Wyatt.
As Halvorson continues redefining the jazz landscape, About Ghosts promises to captivate both purists and new listeners alike, marking another notable chapter in her prolific career.
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