John Zorn 50th Birthday Celebration, Vol. 7 CD

With its patented blend of swirling Klezmer themes and frantic free-jazz improvising, one might think that Masada's music would grow predictable or tiresome over time. On the contrary, the burbling, always-busy rhythm section of bassist Greg Cohen and octopus-armed drummer Joey Baron expands the tunes anew with each performance, and the sinuous twin horn lines of trumpeter Dave Douglas and saxophonist John Zorn search and push in ever-changing directions. In addition to uncanny chemistry and dynamic interplay, Masada never fails to keep its music fresh and forward-moving.

This is certainly true of the live performance staged to commemorate Zorn's 50th birthday, represented here on this 2004 Tzadik release. The program consists of Zorn's scores, which rival the quartet's musicianship in complexity, sophistication, and beauty. Part Ornette Coleman-inspired madness ("Sippur"), part melancholic Middle Eastern mysticism ("Karaim"), and part gypsy/swing expressionism ("Ravayah"), the music here surprises, enchants, and enthralls. It is hard to go wrong with Masada recordings, and VOL. 7 further confirms the ensemble's status as one of the 21st century's most exciting jazz groups.

Live Recording

Masada: Greg Cohen (bass instrument); John Zorn, Joey Baron, Dave Douglas .

Personnel: John Zorn (alto saxophone); Dave Douglas (trumpet); Joey Baron (drums).