Unbounded Horizons: An Interview with Bill Laswell on Decades of Collaborations with John Zorn

An interview with music visionary Bill Laswell

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Bill Laswell and John Zorn, two visionaries in the world of experimental music, have forged an extraordinary working relationship that spans several decades. Their artistic alliance blossomed amidst the vibrant and boundary-pushing New York downtown scene of the late '70s, where they first crossed paths and discovered a shared passion for musical exploration beyond conventions. Since then, these two remarkable musicians have embarked on an exhilarating journey of creative collaboration, constantly pushing the boundaries of free improvisation and avant-garde expression.

One of the most iconic fruits of their partnership is the groundbreaking band PainKiller. Together with the legendary drummer Mick Harris, they unleashed a sonic maelstrom that fused elements of metal, free jazz, and noise into a raw and intense musical experience. PainKiller became emblematic of their audacious approach, defying norms and embracing the unorthodox in pursuit of unbridled creativity.

Their collaboration extended further with the formation of Bladerunner, a trio completed by the virtuosic drumming of Dave Lombardo. In this setting, they embarked on a thrilling exploration of sonic landscapes, delving into uncharted territories that transcended genre boundaries.

Their recent, post-COVID collaborations on "The Cleansing" and "Memoria" showcases their remarkable musical synergy and shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. Their longstanding friendship, which began in the late '70s within the vibrant New York Downtown scene, has evolved into a continuous and deeply connected relationship.

Both recordings are a testament to their dedication to free improvisation, a hallmark of their musical journey. The albums demonstrate their ability to create immersive, forward-thinking, and sometimes intense musical experiences. In "The Cleansing," the duo engages in studio-recorded improvisations that showcase their deep musical understanding of each other, resulting in raw and gestural compositions.

As they ventured into "Memoria," their collaboration took a more ambient edge, paying homage to influential figures who have passed away—Pharoah Sanders, Wayne Shorter, and Milford Graves. The compositions on this album reflect the essence of these musical legends, capturing Zorn and Laswell's personal feelings of loss and reverence. Their intuitive connection and telepathic improvisational interplay shine through as they navigate unconventional sonic territories.

Together, Laswell and Zorn have left an indelible mark on the avant-garde music scene, fearlessly exploring unbounded horizons and pushing the limits of creative expression. Their innovative approach to free improvisation and their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity have inspired countless musicians and continue to resonate deeply within the world of experimental music. Their collaborations stand as a testament to the power of artistic synergy and the limitless possibilities that arise when two visionary minds converge in pursuit of uncharted musical territories.

In this interview, Laswell looks back at his extraordinary collaborations with Zorn, offering profound insight into the thrilling musical odyssey they embarked on. Together, they fearlessly explored uncharted sonic landscapes that transcended boundaries, forging a bond that deepened their artistic connection.

Photo Credit: Luca Canini

Can you share with us how your friendship with John Zorn began and how it evolved over the years?

My friendship with John Zorn began many years ago, and it has been a continuous connection ever since. We first crossed paths through the vibrant New York music scene in the late '70s, where our shared interests and creative inclinations quickly brought us together. Over time, we've developed a simple and easy-going relationship based on mutual respect and understanding. As musicians and artists, our paths have intertwined on numerous occasions, resulting in a multitude of collaborations that have left a profound mark on both of us. Our shared passion for pushing the boundaries of music and exploring unconventional sonic territories has fostered a strong bond between us. We've always believed in the power of creative expression as a means of transcending genres and conventions.