In anticipation of the November 13 performance by Peter Brötzmann and Paal Nilssen-Love, the Center for New Music presents the San Francisco premiere of this feature-length film:
Soldier of the Road: A Portrait of Peter Brötzmannwith Paal Nilssen-Love, Evan Parker, Han Bennink, Fred Van Hove, Joe McPhee
Produced and Directed by Bernard Josse
(2012; 93 minutes)
This compelling portrait of the legendary free jazz saxophonist features some of Europe’s greatest improvisers in candid interviews and raw, take-no-prisoners music and performance footage.
Initially a visual artist associated with Fluxus, Peter Brötzmann roared into prominence in the late 1960’s with the recordings Machine Gunand Fuck De Boere. Since that time, Brötzmann has continued to shake the stage with his reed playing, teaming up at various points with new music luminaries Han Bennink, Fred Van Hove, Anthony Braxton, Willem Breuker, Bill Laswell, Sonny Sharrock, Cecil Taylor, John Zorn, and many others. Brötzmann’s raucous, wrenching improvisations pick up where Ayler and Ornette leave off; yet the film also reveals a surprisingly introspective and contemplative artist.
“… a visionary improvisor and visual artist who is still shaking the foundations of free music half a century into his career.”
– The WIRE
“He’s just a force of nature … directed through a saxophone.”
– Evan Parker
Learn more about the film and Peter Brötzmann.
Special thanks to Bernard Josse. This event curated by Peter Esmonde; Peter Brötzmann’s concert appearance curated by Lisa Mezzacappa.