Evan Parker
Monoceros

★★★½

God I shouldn't have listened to with my horrible headache right now, but I powered through. And I'm actually quite happy I did, it takes a while, but it loses the harsh edge once you fully immerse yourself. Parker is definitely one of the great European improvisers, and this record is a pretty good demonstration of his talent. The Incus label is an especially good start for hearing not only Parker's music but that of his peers. 

This album is polarizing in a great way; Parker with a solo soprano saxophone is interesting to say the least. And this is quite an amazing feat, as apparently this album was recorded directly to record. Meaning there was no tape edits of any kind. The range he is able to obtain on this single instrument, along with this circular breathing technique, make this one of the most interesting uses of soprano sax I've ever heard. In many ways it sounds like anything BUT a soprano saxophone. 

The first track is about 22 minutes long and is easily the most encompassing and stretched out track on here. However, all the tracks don't really veer off into different styles or methods in playing. I guess the only difference in them would be that they're mostly more sparse and quiet compared to that opening track. You hear all the squeaks and skronks, but there's definitely more textures and connections to the natural world throughout. 

The sounds of birds, the struggle between predator and prey; it all connects with each other.  But it's more about the technique and ability here, not just as a great improviser but also as an amazing saxophonist. This is something, for me, that is really a one time listen. While I can't imagine myself visiting it again soon, I'm happy I heard it. 

Favorite Song: Monoceros 1

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