Luminous Axis

AMG Review of Luminous Axis

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All Music Guide

Paramount among several excellent albums by Wadada Leo Smith that appeared during the first years of the 21st century on John Zorn's Tzadik label, Luminous Axis -- The Caravans of Winter and Summer is described by the artist as "An Electronic Sonic Garden of Delights and Transformations, Events 1-15." Smith's trumpet is heard at its most intimate and inspired, with percussionist William Winant and a team of technically adept improvisers (John Bischoff, Chris Brown, Ikue Mori, Tim Perkis, and Mark Trayle) who handle what are described as computer-driven electronics. The effect is pleasantly unpredictable and at times delightfully disorienting. Wadada Leo Smith is a master of improvisation who balances sound and silence with a combination of theatrical freedom and ritualistic discipline that can be breathtaking. It is certainly one of this artist's all-time best efforts, similar in many ways to some of Anthony Braxton's collaborations with Richard Teitelbaum. The electronic element can and does appeal to 21st century ears, hearts, and minds.