## Thurston Moore’s “Now Jazz Now“: A Deep Dive into Essential free Jazz & Improvisation (1960-1980)
The landscape of avant-garde music is set to be enriched this December with the release of Now Jazz Now: 100 Essential Free Jazz & Improvisation Recordings [1960-80]
, a meticulously curated collection from Sonic Youth’s Thurston Moore, published through his Ecstatic Peace Library Ecstatic Peace Library.This isn’t merely a discography; it’s a vibrant chronicle of a pivotal era in jazz history, assembled by a collective of passionate musicians adn a seasoned music writer. as of October 16, 2025, the anticipation for this release is building, promising a valuable resource for both seasoned collectors and those newly exploring the boundaries of improvised music.the book’s arrival coincides with a renewed interest in experimental jazz,fueled by artists like Nubya garcia and Shabaka Hutchings who are pushing the genre forward in 2025,demonstrating the enduring influence of the free jazz pioneers.
### The Collaborative Vision Behind “Now jazz Now”
This ambitious project isn’t a solo endeavor. Thurston Moore has partnered with a distinguished group of collaborators, each bringing unique expertise to the table. Swedish saxophonist and improviser Mats Gustafsson, known for his work in The Thing and Firebird, contributes his deep understanding of the European free improvisation scene. Iconic singer-songwriter Neneh Cherry, whose own musical journey has often intersected with experimental sounds, lends her outlook. The legendary saxophonist Joe McPhee, a central figure in the free jazz movement, provides invaluable firsthand experience.Completing the team is music writer Byron Coley, whose insightful commentary and extensive knowledge of record collecting add crucial context. This diverse assembly of talents ensures that Now Jazz Now
offers a multifaceted exploration of the subject matter.
The synergy between these individuals is especially noteworthy. Moore’s experience as a musician and label head, Gustafsson’s immersion in the European improv scene, Cherry’s artistic sensibility, McPhee’s past perspective, and Coley’s critical writing combine to create a truly comprehensive and insightful resource. This collaborative approach mirrors the spirit of free jazz itself – a genre built on collective improvisation and a rejection of rigid hierarchies.
### Unpacking the Contents: A Collector’s Dream
Spanning 277 pages, Now Jazz Now
is more than just a list of albums. It’s a visually rich and intellectually stimulating journey through the world of Free Jazz and Free Improvisation. The book features extensive album art, showcasing the distinctive visual aesthetics of the era. It also includes reproductions of original labels and sleeve notes, offering a glimpse into the physical artifacts that accompanied these groundbreaking recordings. Perhaps most importantly,the book incorporates personal musings from the collaborators,detailing their lifelong passion for record collecting and their individual connections to the music. This personal touch elevates the book beyond a mere academic exercise, transforming it into a heartfelt tribute to a vital musical movement.
The focus on the period between 1960 and 1980 is particularly meaningful. this era saw the
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