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Almost completed before the passing of Chicago’s Jaimie Branch last summer, ‘Fly or Die Fly…’ is a phenomenal final masterpiece from the talented trumpet player and composer. This celestial jazz slow burner showcases Branch’s big-hearted and groove-forward style, leaving a lasting impression.
‘Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die ((world war))’ had reached its final stages when Branch tragically passed away in July 2022. Recorded and composed with her Fly or Die ensemble during a residency at Nebraska’s Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, the album only required some fine-tuning, artwork, and track titles to be finalized. Determined to honor Branch’s legacy, her family and band members (Jason Ajemian, Lester St. Louis, and Chad Taylor) came together to add the finishing touches and bring ‘Fly or Die Fly…’ to completion. The result is an energetic and flawlessly produced album that is not just a posthumous release but an intentional and poignant expression from one of Chicago’s brightest player-composers.
Branch had high hopes for this album, aiming to focus on longer, more vibrant compositions that highlighted vocals and powerful melodies. This vision is perfectly realized in tracks like ‘burning grey’, a charged and captivating piece that showcases Branch’s playful vocals soaring above Ajemian’s swinging double bass, St. Louis’s evocative strings reminiscent of Arthur Russell, and Taylor’s driving, Silver Apples-style groove. There’s an undeniable progginess to the music that adds to Branch’s expansive soundscapes. Similarly, ‘baba louie’ is a delightfully mischievous island shuffle, led by Branch’s cheeky trumpet and anchored by Taylor’s relaxed yet rhythmic drumming. When the gospel-inspired vocals blend with echoing electronics, it creates a heavenly burst of light. This album is a stunning display of Branch’s talent and creativity.
Branch’s ‘Fly or Die Fly…’ is a must-listen for fans of celestial jazz, groove-forward melodies, and artists like Arthur Russell and Silver Apples. With its polished production and infectious energy, this album is a testament to Branch’s immense musical ability and her lasting impact on the Chicago music scene. It is a fitting tribute to a truly gifted musician.
