For our next entry in the colossal task of examining the work of Downtown composer John Zorn, we turn to a more recent record from the Chaos Magick quartet. Featuring the main Simulacrum trio (John Medeski on organ, Kenny Grohowski on drums, and Matt Hollenberg on guitar) augmented by Brian Marsella on electric piano, 444 is a tremendous evolution for one of Zorn’s most challenging and electrifying ensembles.

Known for jagged, explosive sounds, abrupt left turns, and a blistering intensity that leaves the listener smoldering in the dust, this particular Zorn group is one of his most dynamic and inventive, taking his demanding compositions to new heights – muscular drums bolster and support the sharp, angular twists and turns of the organ, electric piano, and guitar. While 444 is definitely a bit more groove-oriented (relative term when it comes to Zorn of course), it’s not without its moments of flashy, over-the-top dissonance and trademark Zorn spontaneity juxtaposted against quiet, mysterious, shadowy ambient passages of murky, ominous melody and atmosphere.

Between the blasts of skittering noise and the bursts of transcendent, soaring melody and texture, 444 puts Chaos Magick on display at the height of their powers. Watching this particular group of musicians in a live setting is also a thrill unlike any other – to believe this music can even be performed in physical meatspace requires seeing to believe. It takes true masters of their instruments to deliver Zorn’s specific vision, which often changes radically from song to song. Luckily, between Medeski, Grohowski, Hollenberg, and Marsella, you’re looking at four of the finest musicians currently walking this entire planet of Earth.

Whether you need a soundtrack to your next breathless run through a dungeon, a slog to the bottom of the ocean, a sweltering, sizzling desert trek, or something else altogether, Chaos Magick will give it to you here on 444. Technically dazzling and sonically exquisite, an absolute gem in the Zorn discography that continues to wow me every time I listen.