Burrell, Dave -& Steve Swell-
Turning Point
On 'Turning Point,' pianist Dave Burrell, known for avant-garde jazz, draws on pre-bop styles to explore themes from the American Civil War. This album, part of a five-suite series, features trombonist Steve Swell and mixes playful and serious tones. Pieces like 'One Nation' blend Civil War song motifs with dissonance, while 'Battle At Gettysburg' evokes battlefield sounds. The standout track, 'Paradox Of Freedom,' contrasts a boogie riff with intense solo piano, reflecting post-Emancipation struggles. The album delivers a powerful, cinematic narrative with Burrell's signature blend of ragtime, stride, and avant-garde.