Anthony Braxton - The Complete Braxton (1973)

Anthony Braxton – The Complete Braxton presents a wide-ranging exploration of the composer’s early creative vision, blending structured composition with free improvisation. Although released in 1988, the recordings originate from 1973 and reflect Braxton’s formative period as one of the most influential figures in avant-garde jazz. The album showcases his distinctive approach to orchestration, where unconventional ensemble configurations and extended instrumental techniques are used to challenge traditional jazz forms.

Across the program, Braxton moves between intimate chamber-like settings and dense ensemble passages, featuring works such as “Quartet Ballad,” “Four Sopranos,” and “Five Tubas,” each highlighting his interest in timbre and instrumental contrast. The presence of musicians like Chick Corea, Kenny Wheeler, and David Holland adds both harmonic sophistication and improvisational depth, while Barry Altschul provides rhythmic flexibility throughout. The inclusion of the London Tuba Ensemble introduces a rare, sonically rich texture that expands the tonal palette of the recording.

The result is a document that reflects Braxton’s early compositional philosophy—where structure and freedom coexist, and where ensemble sound is treated as an evolving, multi-layered system rather than a fixed jazz format.

Tracklist:
1. Up Thing - 4:35
2. Quartet Ballad - 16:35
3. March - 5:15
4. Four Sopranos - 15:00
5. Be Bop - 9:47
6. Five Tubas - 8:01
7. Soprano Ballad - 14:32
8. Contra Basse - 6:18

Personnel:
Anthony Braxton - soprano & alto saxophones, clarinet, contrabass clarinet, flute
Chick Corea - piano
Kenny Wheeler - trumpet, flugelhorn
David Holland - bass, cello
Barry Altschul - drums
London Tuba Ensemble - multiple tubas