*In process of stocking. 2022 stock.* The latest in John Zorn‘s second Masada songbook, the highly melodic and dynamic Book of Angels, the 10 songs on Alastor come courtesy of master composer and violist / multi-instrumentalist Eyvind Kang. Though Kang generally skews towards classical, chamber, and ambient, his take on Zorn’s hand-picked selections is a surprising and gorgeous collision of styles.
“Hakem” opens with synthesized accents and a strong Indian and Persian inflection—elements that recurs, particularly in epic film-score motifs. The usual Jewish overtones pair with jazzy undertones, and string quartets blend with exotica and lounge sounds. A bit of Steve Reich-ian minimalism appears on “Rachiel,” a piece that includes extra-reverberated percussion and a trumpet freak-out. In all, it’s a beautiful collection—and yet another new interpretation of Zorn’s compositions.
Packaged in a Digipak with a die-cut front cover and, around the spine, a photo-illustrated black obi that includes notes.
Includes card insert under Digipak inlay tray, with credits and "Every Rose" by Zelda, translated from the Hebrew by John Zorn.
Recorded and mixed at Avast, Seattle except 1, 6, 9, 10 basic tracks recorded at Eastside Sound, NYC
