WEIRD LITTLE BOY — Weird Little Boy (1998) APE (image+.cue), lossless

 From the first ten seconds of this album, you know exactly where jazz masochist John Zorn is heading with Weird Little Boy, one of his many noise projects with Mr. Bungle singer Mike Patton. A Phil Spector-style drum intro immediately leads into some hissing noise, with squeaks and pops provided by Zorn's saxophone. From this point on, nothing is sacred sonically. These are not songs so much as pieces of sound, and this is how the artist intended it to be. The music slides from casual guitar jamming (courtesy of Patton's partner in crime Trey Spruance) to ear-splitting noise to the sound of someone choking to cartoon sound effects in a matter of a minute. The album is more of an experience than anything, and this is driven home by the wonderful packaging (which includes a booklet filled with poetry, text, and art). This is not for fans of jazz, or fans of anything really. This is a brutal noise experience for listeners interested in how far sonic technology can really be stretched and twisted. It is also very captivating music, and given time it can really sustain interest. Just make sure to listen to it when you have time to digest the whole package. Bradley Torreano
Tracklist :
[1]    (10:07)
1.1    Two Weeks On A Morphine Drip    
1.2    New Dirt And New Flies    
1.3    Lorne Greenlies    
[2]    (8:05)
2.1    If The Gun Has A Mind    
2.2    Redeye    
2.3    Worms And Shit    
3    Totally Poobied    2:14
4    Weird Little Boy    1:39
5    Lungfull Of Water    7:51
6    Seance    3:04
7    When Blood Fills A Cylinder    2:59
8    Waiting    1:46
9    Blindness    4:04
Credits :
Chris Cochrane - Guitar
Mike Patton - Drums, Vocals
Trey Spruance - Guitars, Keyboards, Drums
William Winant - Percussion
John Zorn - Alto, Samplers, Keyboards
Dennis Cooper - Text

JOHN ZORN | BILL LASWELL — The Cleansing (2022) Spectrum Series – 37 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Zorn and Laswell have been friends and musical compatriots since they first met in 1978, and have been responsible for some of the most intense and memorable music in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Recorded in early 2021, near the end of the year’s pandemic lockdown, it marks the first time Zorn had touched the saxophone in over fifteen months. Laswell had spent most of the year locked in his apartment. Something special was happening that day—and after the session Laswell felt rejuvenated—as if all the toxins and poisons had left his body. Soulful and essential, "The Cleansing" is an historic meeting—and the first recorded duo project by these two Downtown magicians. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Brion Gysin    10:04

2    Aleister Crowley    6:52
3    Austin Osman Spare    6:47
4    William Burroughs    10:19
5    Alejandro Jodorowsky    8:56
6    The Cleansing    3:41
Credits :
Alto Saxophone, Producer, Liner Notes – John Zorn
Bass – Bill Laswell

JOHN ZORN — 444 (2023) Archival Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In 2020 Brian Marsella joined the heavy metal organ trio “Simulacrum” to spawn the astonishing fusion quartet “Chaos Magick”. This fourth CD in their ever-expanding legacy is a magical collection of instrumental music at its finest. Tighter and wilder than ever, Medeski, Hollenberg, Grohowski, and Marsella perform with a remarkable rapport in this provocative new direction from Downtown alchemist John Zorn, who has been exploring new musical worlds and confounding expectations since the 1970s!
"444 is among the best things I’ve ever done." —John Zorn tzadik
 Tracklist :

1    Splendour Solis    4:26
2    Retort    7:36
3    In Sulphur And In Flame    3:00
4    Astral Projection    7:31
5    Civil Disobedience    3:29
6    With Blood I Summon Thee    5:49
7    Salt And Mercury    5:38
8    Tayy Al-Ard    9:12
Personnel :
Brian Marsella: Electric Piano
John Medeski: Organ
Kenny Grohowski: Drums, Percussion
Matt Hollenberg: Electric Guitar

JOHN ZORN — Naked City (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The violent cover photo (which shows a man after he was shot dead) sets the stage for the rather passionate music on this John Zorn set. With guitarist Bill Frisell, keyboardist Wayne Horvitz, bassist Fred Frith, drummer Joey Baron, and guest vocalist Yamatsuka Eye making intense contributions, altoist Zorn performs his unpredictable originals, abstract versions of some movie themes (including "A Shot in the Dark," "I Want to Live," "Chinatown," and "The James Bond Theme"), plus Ornette Coleman's "Lonely Woman." The stimulating music rewards repeated listenings by more open-minded listeners. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Batman 1'58
John Zorn
2     The Sicilian Clan 3'27
Ennio Morricone
3     You Will Be Shot 1'29
John Zorn
4     Latin Quarter 4'05
John Zorn
5     A Shot in the Dark 3'09
Henry Mancini
6     Reanimator 1'34
John Zorn
7     Snagglepuss 2'44
John Zorn
8     I Want to Live 2'08
Johnny Mandel
9     Lonely Woman 2'38
Ornette Coleman
10     Igneous Ejaculation 0'20
John Zorn
11     Blood Duster 0'13
John Zorn
12     Hammerhead 0'08
John Zorn
13     Demon Sanctuary 0'38
John Zorn
14     Obeah Man 0'17
John Zorn
15     Ujaku 0'27
John Zorn
16     Fuck the Facts 0'11
John Zorn
17     Speedball 0'37
John Zorn
18     Chinatown 4'23
Jerry Goldsmith
19     Punk China Doll 3'01
John Zorn
20     N.Y. Flat Top Box 0'43
John Zorn
21     Saigon Pickup 4'46
John Zorn
22     The James Bond Theme 3'02
John Barry
23     Den of Sins 1'08
John Zorn
24     Contempt 2'49
Georges Delerue
25     Graveyard Shift 3'25
John Zorn
26     Inside Straight 4'10
John Zorn
Credits :
Arranged By – John Zorn, Naked City
Bass – Fred Frith
Drums – Joey Baron
Guitar – Bill Frisell
Keyboards – Wayne Horvitz
Vocals – Yamatsuka Eye

JOHN ZORN - Astaroth : Book Of Angels Volume 1 (Jamie Saft Trio) (2005) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In the final months of 2004, John Zorn wrote over 300 new tunes for his popular Masada project, and he now initiates a new series of recordings featuring the best players out of the burgeoning Masada family in dynamic units performing compositions from Masada Book Two—The Book of Angels. This first volume features Jamie Saft in an acoustic piano trio reminiscent of the best in the genre. Bill Evans, Paul Bley, Herbie Hancock, Vince Guaraldi and even the Bagels and Bongos of Catskills pianist Irving Fields become touchstones for this remarkably interactive group that includes Greg Cohen (Masada, Ornette Coleman) on bass and Ben Perowsky (Uri Caine, John Scofield) on drums. Playing with the fire and passion one has come to expect from the Masada family, this soulful and imaginative trio sets new standards for versatility and excellence in the piano trio format. This group is pure magic and they have created one of the most exciting and enjoyable CDs in the Tzadik catalog. Absolutely breathtaking. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Shalmiel    5:26
2    Ygal    3:09
3    Astaroth    6:10
4    Ezeqeel    4:21
5    Ariel    6:28
6    Sturiel    5:05
7    Baal-Peor    7:10
8    Pursan    2:22
9    Lelahel    9:02
10    Beleth    5:59
Credits :
Piano – Jamie Saft
Bass – Greg Cohen
Drums – Ben Perowsky
Composed, Producer – John Zorn
Illustration – Jarrault

JOHN ZORN - Azazel : Book of Angels, Vol. 2 (Masada String Trio) (2005) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

The first new studio recording in almost ten years by one of the most exhilarating ensembles in the ever growing Masada family. Together since 1994, their breathtaking virtuosity, extraordinary passion and telepathic interplay has increased over the years and now their performances set a new standard for excitement, concentration and commitment. Performing thirteen new compositions from Zorn’s legendary Book of Angels, these three brilliant musicians, under the “baton” of the composer himself present a varied program of delicate lyricism, poignant ballads and driving blasts of energy. New music for the new millennium drawing upon classical, jazz and gypsy folk traditions through the postmodern lens of Radical Jewish Culture. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Tufiel    6:22
2    Mibi    1:53
3    Tabaet    6:46
4    Symnay    5:23
5    Mastema    6:39
6    Bethor    5:25
7    Uriel    4:37
8    Gurid    1:52
9    Gazziel    4:04
10    Azazel    5:26
11    Rssasiel    2:36
12    Garzanal    5:22
13    Abiel    3:47
Credits :
Bass – Greg Cohen
Cello – Erik Friedlander
Violin – Mark Feldman
Illustration – Jarrault
Composed, Producer, Conductor – John Zorn

JOHN ZORN – Malphas : Book Of Angels Vol. 3 (Mark Feldman and Sylvie Courvoisier) (2005) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

A spectacular presentation of eleven new compositions from Zorn’s Book of Angels by two passionate virtuosos whose work together is never less than perfection itself. Contextualizing the music into a classical recital for violin and piano, this is the chamber music of the future. Exciting and breathtaking, Mark and Sylvie have put together a program filled with imagination, lyricism and an intense energy. New Jewish music by one of the greatest violin/piano pairings ever. This is a whole new all-encompassing direction for classical music. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Azriel    4:12
2    Basus    3:27
3    Rigal    4:15
4    Kafziel    4:23
5    Labariel    6:20
6    Zethar    1:44
7    Paschal    5:21
8    Boel    4:35
9    Sammael    3:05
10    Padiel    6:27
11    Sretil    2:49
Credits :
Piano,  Arranged – Sylvie Courvoisier
Violin, Arranged – Mark Feldman
Composed, Producer – John Zorn
Illustration – Jarrault

JOHN ZORN - Orobas : Book of Angels Volume 4 (Koby Israelite) (2006) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Born in Tel Aviv, multi-instrumentalist Koby Israelite has been playing music since the age of nine. Conservatory trained on piano and keyboards, he was drawn to punk and heavy metal as a teenager, switched to drums and then got turned on to Jazz, World Music and the Downtown Scene. For his third Tzadik CD, this tireless and ever creative musical spirit turns his hand to the complex lyricism of Zorn’s complex Book of Angels. Interpreting tunes handpicked by Zorn himself, Koby mixes in everything he knows, including metal, jazz, gypsy and klezmer with stylish flair and great virtuosity. Naked City, Zappa, Taraf de Haidouks and Fantomas all rolled into one, this is an amazing orchestral achievement by an exciting young musical adventurer. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Rampel    6:31
2    Zafiel    4:41
3    Ezgadi    5:17
4    Nisroc    4:56
5    Neyef    5:54
6    Khabiel    6:29
7    Chayo    6:28
8    Rachmiel    8:09
Credits :
Sid Gauld - Trumpet
Koby Israelite - Drums, Percussion, Accordion, Keyboards, Guitar, Bouzouki, Indian Banjo, Vocals, Flute, Electric Bass, Cajon, Arrangements
Yaron Stavi - Basses, Vocals
Stewart Curtis - Recorder, Piccolo, Clarinet
Illustration – Jarrault
Composed, Producer – John Zorn

JOHN ZORN - Balan : Book of Angels, Vol. 5 (The Cracow Klezmer Band) (2006) APE (image+.cue), lossless

Formed in 1997, The Cracow Klezmer Band is a phenomena. Through their spectacular combination of impeccable musicianship, imaginative arrangements and passionate performances they have been universally acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, developing into one of the most successful and exciting acoustic groups in the world. Here they are joined by the lush sound of strings, as Bester turns his prodigious arranging skills to eight new songs from Zorn’s fabulous and varied Book of Angels. Also featuring the Cracow String Quartet this is their best CD to date. TZADIK

Tracklist :
1    Zuriel    4:16
2    Suria    7:54
3    Dirael    6:04
4    Kadosh    2:41
5    Haniel    5:03
6    Jehoel    5:13
7    Asbeel    5:03
8    Aniel    3:48
The Cracow Klezmer Band :
Bayan - Jaroslaw Bester
Double Bass – Wojciech Front
Percussion – Oleg Dyyak
Violin – Jaroslaw Tyrala

Guest [Special Guests] – DAFO String Quartet
Cello – Anna Armatys
Viola – Aneta Dumanowska
Violin [First] – Justyna Duda
Violin [Second] – Danuta Augustyn
Vocals [Vocal] – Jorgos Skolias
Illustration – Jarrault
Composed, Producer – John Zorn

JOHN ZORN - Moloch : Book Of Angels Volume 6 (Uri Caine) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Uri Caine is a musician of astonishing virtuosity and versatility. Coming out of the legendary Philly Jazz scene, his playing is an encyclopedia of styles from Tatum to Evans and beyond. With Moloch he interprets tunes from Zorn’s Book of Angels in a breathtaking outing for solo piano. Virtuosic and soulful, this latest volume of material from Masada Book Two is an absolute tour-de-force. Fifteen musical miniatures by one of the world’s greatest piano virtuosos. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Rimmon    4:46
2    Domiel    3:55
3    Mehriel    4:30
4    Savliel    2:24
5    Tufrial    4:03
6    Jerazol    3:38
7    Harshiel 3:35
8    Dumah    3:11
9    Harviel    5:00
10    Segef    1:56
11    Sahriel    4:59
12    Shokad    2:56
13    Zophiel    5:01
14    Hayyoth    2:28
15    Nuriel    5:50
16    Ubaviel    5:17
17    Hadrial    4:42
18    Cassiel    3:27
19    Rimmon    6:14
Credits :
Arranged, Piano – Uri Caine
Composed, Producer – John Zorn
Illustration – Jarrault

JOHN ZORN - Asmodeus : Book Of Angels Volume 7 (Marc Ribot) (2007) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Three of the most intense musicians on the planet come together in one of the most explosive and rockin’ ensembles around. An original member of the Masada family since its inception, no one is more keenly equipped to handle a rock trio interpretation of the Book of Angels than Marc Ribot. Joined here by the versatile Trevor Dunn (Fantomas, Moonchild) on bass and the legendary G.Calvin Weston (Ornette Coleman, James Blood Ulmer) on drums, Marc plays like never before, referencing Hendrix, Sharrock, McLaughlin, Ulmer and more. Masada music takes on a whole new dimension. Passionate and powerful, this is one of the most compelling installments in the entire Masada series and contains some of Ribot’s wildest and best playing ever. This CD will blow your mind. TZADIK

Tracklist :
1    Kalmiya    4:41
2    Yezriel    7:26
3    Kezef    2:32
4    Mufgar    2:58
5    Armaros    4:52
6    Cabriel    2:00
7    Zakun    3:38
8    Raziel    2:24
9    Dagiel    3:22
10    Sensenya    4:37
Credits :
Bass – Trevor Dunn
Drums – G. Calvin Weston
Guitar – Marc Ribot
Composed, Producer, Arranged, Conductor – John Zorn
Illustration – Jarrault

JOHN ZORN - Volac : Book Of Angels Volume 8 (Erik Friedlander) (2007) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Volume 8 in the continuing Book of Angels series is an intimate and breathtaking recital by one of the world’s most accomplished cellists. A vital member of the Masada family from the very beginning, Erik Friedlander has hypnotized audiences both here and in Europe with his own bands Topaz, Broken Arm and Grains of Paradise. Stepping out in a special solo project, Erik shows off his remarkable technique in ten compositions from Zorn’s lyrical Book of Angels. This is Erik at his best. Rich, romantic, gripping music to both challenge and soothe the savage beast. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Harhazial    4:36
2    Rachsiel    2:39
3    Zumiel    1:39
4    Yeruel    3:24
5    Sannul    1:18
6    Haseha    4:35
7    Kadal    3:51
8    Ahaniel    5:44
9    Ylrng    1:37
10    Anahel    4:18
11    Sidriel    3:02
12    Zawar    4:38
Credits :
Arranged, Cello – Erik Friedlander
Illustration – Jarrault
Composed, Producer – John Zorn

JOHN ZORN — Xaphan : Book of Angels ★ Volume 9 »Secret Chiefs 3« (2008) Archival Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Spectacular arrangements of Masada compositions by mad alchemist Trey Spruance, mastermind of Secret Chiefs 3 and one of the most brilliant musicians around. Drawing upon an astonishing array of musical styles from Exotica and Surf to Ethiopian Funk and Gypsy Swing, Trey ’s colorful orchestral arrangements perfectly compliment the lyricism and dynamic rhythmic complexity of Zorn ’s evocative Book of Angels. Featuring some of the best musicians from the Bay Area, LA and Seattle scenes, this is one of the most compelling installments in the entire Masada series. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Sheburiel    5:44
2    Akramachamarei    5:46
3    Shoel    6:18
4    Barakiel    5:49
5    Bezriel    4:37
6    Kemuel    4:23
7    Labbiel    4:23
8    Asron    3:32
9    Balberith    6:31
10    Omael    3:57
11    Hamaya    4:28
Credits :
Composed, Producer – John Zorn
Arranged, Baritone Guitar, Electric Guitar, Organ, Percussion, Synthesizer, Autoharp, Piano – Trey Spruance
Bass – Shahzad Ismaily, Trey Spruance (pistas: 2, 3)
Cello, Double Bass [Upright Bass] – Tim Smolens
Clavinet – Adam Stacey
Drums, Congas – Ches Smith
Guitar – Jason Schimmel
Harp – Monica Schley
Sarangi – Rich Doucette
Violin, Trumpet – Timb Harris
Voice, Viola - Elena Doroftei
Illustration – Jarrault

JOHN ZORN - Lucifer : Book Of Angels Volume 10 (Bar Kokhba) (2008) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

Lucifer is the first studio recording in over ten years by the most popular and best selling Masada ensemble ever. Here they play better and tighter than ever, blending Sephardic and Ashkenazi sonorities with latin, surf, world music and more in an inimitable easy listening instrumental style. Lyrical and soulful, this is some of the most exciting and enjoyable chamber music you are ever likely to hear.Lucifer is yet another brilliant release from Zorn’s Book of Angels—one of the most consistent and compelling collections on Tzadik. TZADIK
Tracklist :
1    Sother    5:58
2    Dalquiel    6:07
3    Zazel    3:21
4    Gediel    6:12
5    Rahal    3:48
6    Zechriel    7:53
7    Azbugah    3:01
8    Mehalalel    9:54
9    Quelamia    4:58
10    Abdiel    3:25
Credits :
Composed, Producer, Arranged, Conductor – John Zorn
Bass – Greg Cohen
Cello – Erik Friedlander
Drums – Joey Baron
Guitar – Marc Ribot
Percussion – Cyro Baptista
Violin – Mark Feldman
Illustration – Jarrault