Marilyn Crispell - Gaia (Leo, 1987)

This post is by Dan

Marilyn Crispell (p); Reggie Workman (b); Doug James (d, perc)

Recorded March 15, 1987

Marilyn Crispell's Gaia is not typical piano trio jazz, like those we have reviewed in numerous other posts. The Penguin Guide's review of Gaia is brief and to the point. "Gaia is one of the finest composition/improvisation records of the '80s, a hymn to the planet that is neither mawkish nor sentimental, but tough-minded, coherent and entire" (9th ed., p. 374). At 39:40, the album is not extended beyond its limits; everything the group wanted to say is contained within an easily listenable span.

Despite there being only one track on my CD, I hear five separate movements that might be themes relevant to planet earth - or not, depending on what you take from them. The first movement feels like organic beginnings to me, as a confluence of sounds emerge without specific structure. Movements 2 and 3 are more song-like, taken at a faster pace and highlighted by outstanding solo opportunities for each player. The speed and agility of Crispell's playing might surprise people only familiar with her more recent ECM albums. Here, she flies articulately across the entire keyboard at great speed above the roiling undercurrent provided by her partners. She only resorts to pounding clusters on Movement 5, which ends abruptly with a dramatic march-like figure. 

Reggie Workman's and Doug James' contributions are essential, but not as a conventional rhythm section. Workman shows off a wide range of exotic sounds from the bass. His solos float to the surface at just the right moments, and his range of effects shows the bass's versatility. James also takes solos and maintains a persistent presence as both thrasher and ornamentalist. 

Gaia is a great example of "free jazz" that expresses a thematic vision while remaining open and accessible on many different levels. One can admire the virtuosity displayed by Crispell and Workman, the progression through the unnamed movements, and marvel at the interplay within the trio. All of this makes Gaia essential listening.