Aguirre Records / Belgium / 2025 / 2LP
The Ancients is an intergenerational free jazz trio formed by bassist William Parker, featuring Isaiah Collier on tenor saxophone and William Hooker on drums. Originally assembled for performances tied to the Milford Graves: Mind-Body Deal exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, the trio has evolved into a full-fledged working group. Their debut, a double LP of side-length, improvised live sets recorded at 2220 Arts & Archives (LA) and The Chapel (San Francisco), channels the spirit and sonic traditions of historic free jazz trios—drawing lineage from Cecil Taylor, Ornette Coleman, Sam Rivers, and Parker’s own collaborations with Charles Gayle, Milford Graves, Peter Brötzmann, and Hamid Drake.
This music resonates with historical urgency and emotional depth, in line with politically and socially charged moments in jazz history, like the recordings of Ascension, Journey in Satchidananda, and M’Boom. The Ancients tap into that tradition—offering a balm, a declaration of resilience, and a profound spiritual and sonic offering rooted in both legacy and innovation.
Isaiah Collier, the youngest member, brings fiery, expansive playing that bridges tradition with forward-thinking freedom, showcasing both his improvisational prowess and complementing his compositional work (like The Almighty, a NYT Best Albums of 2024 pick).
William Hooker, a vital voice in avant-garde percussion since the 1970s, remains at full power—his drumming full of swing, abstraction, and individuality (“pure Hooker”), shaped by but independent of figures like Sunny Murray and Tony Williams.
William Parker, with his vast discography and influence, serves as a foundational and spiritual guide—embodying what he calls “the tone world,” and offering leadership with deep humility, clarity, and power. This recording is not only a bold artistic statement but a continuation of a living, breathing Black musical tradition that is as relevant now as ever.