John Zorn - Filmworks XV- Protocols of Zion

 Working fast and loose with a small unit of close friends, Zorn has created a sensitive and intimate score for a dynamic new documentary film on a controversial subject: the rise of anti semitism after 9/11. Featuring hypnotic grooves and ominous moods, there is an unsettling feeling throughout this score that is in part due to the subject matter, but heightened by Zorn’s unique keyboard stylings. Here for the first time are extended improvisations, spontaneous compositions and thoughtful ramblings by one of the world’s maverick composers. In the tradition of “composers at the piano” recordings (Mingus, Bacharach, Ives), this CD is a fascinating peek into the inner ear of Zorn the composer. One can literally hear him thinking, developing ideas aloud, aided by the most supportive possible environment in the person of Cyro Baptista, Zorn’s longest musical associate—they have been working together consistently since 1981—and Shanir Blumenkranz, the young bass player from Satlah, Rashanim and Pharaoh’s Daughter. A must for any Zorn fan, this is one of Zorn’s most interesting, enjoyable and personal recordings.

1.    Protocols of Zion
2.    Searching for a Past
3.    Jew Watcher
4.    Mystery of the Jew
5.    History Repeats Itself
6.    Arab and Jew
7.    Fighting Time
8.    Hollywood/Rikers
9.    Elders of Zion
10.    A Dark Future
11.    Transition 1
12.    Transition 2
13.    Transition 3
14.    Transition 4
15.    Coda - the metaphysics of anti-semitism

Be the first to review this record. Best reviewer each month gets £10 off their next order!