Wisdom in Time

Recorded in 2006 and released on Switzerland's Intakt label, Wisdom in Time marks a significant reunion for Wadada Leo Smith and Günter Baby Sommer. The duo had previously been part of a seminal trio with the late bassist Peter Kowald, and this album serves as both a continuation of their dialogue and a heartfelt 'homage to the irreplaceable bassist.' Unlike the dense, high-velocity textures of their 1980s FMP recordings, this session is characterized by extreme spatial awareness and a serene spiritualism. Smith utilizes his 'Ankhrasmation' philosophy of symbolic notation to guide improvisations that are as much about the negative space as the audible frequencies. Sommer’s contribution is noted by critics for its 'super delicate' and 'nuanced' approach, often using bells and subtle percussion to frame Smith's trumpet. The centerpiece, 'Bass-Star Hemispheres,' is a nearly 12-minute dedication to Kowald that exemplifies the album's blend of mourning and creative vitality. It stands as a pinnacle of 21st-century avant-garde jazz, emphasizing the 'wisdom' gained through decades of collaborative evolution.