Al Neil's album The Cellar Years is a captivating journey through the artist's early works. The album is a compilation of recordings from Neil's performances in the 1960s at the Cellar Jazz Club in Vancouver, Canada.
The album features Neil's unique style of improvisation, blending elements of jazz, avant-garde, and experimental music. The tracks are raw and unpolished, capturing the essence of Neil's live performances.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "The Hated Music," which features Neil's hauntingly beautiful piano playing and his spoken-word poetry. The track is a powerful commentary on the state of the music industry and the struggle of independent artists.
Another notable track is "Raga Puriya Kalyan," which showcases Neil's mastery of the sitar. The track is a mesmerizing blend of Indian classical music and Neil's improvisational style.
Al Neil (born March 26, 1924, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada - died November 16, 2017) was a Canadian pianist, composer, visual artist and author.
The Cellar Years is a must-listen for fans of experimental music and those interested in exploring the early works of Al Neil. The album offers a glimpse into the mind of a true innovator and is a testament to Neil's lasting legacy in the Canadian music scene.