Review: Elephant9, renowned for their electrifying live performances, continues to impress with their upcoming double live album, Catching Fire, recorded during a remarkable 2017 concert in Oslo to celebrate Terje Rypdal's 70th birthday. This release, available on double vinyl through Rune Grammofon, adds to the band's impressive discography, which includes multiple studio albums and live recordings. Catching Fire shares a visceral energy reminiscent of classic live albums from Mahavishnu Orchestra, ELP, and King Crimson, combining moments of intense improvisation with serene interludes. The 22-minute opening track showcases Rypdal's distinctive, glacier-like melodic lines, demonstrating his mastery and unique approach. His synergy with Stale Storlokken, who has supported him for nearly 30 years, creates an inseparable musical dialogue, while the rhythm section of Torstein Lofthus and Nikolai Haengsle ensures a solid, dynamic foundation. With its careful mix aiming to capture the live concert experience, Catching Fire is poised to be a highlight for fans. The world of Norwegian jazz prog never sounded better.
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