Jon Hassell's First Posthumous Album 'Music Is Invisible' Arrives

Jon Hassell's first posthumous album, titled 'Music Is Invisible,' is scheduled for release this fall, marking the completion of his 'Pentimento' trilogy. The album was developed from recordings made by Hassell prior to his passing in 2021. The project was overseen by his long-time collaborator and producer, David Torn, who worked to realize Hassell's sonic visions. 'Music Is Invisible' is presented as the final chapter in the 'Pentimento' series, which began with the album 'Pentimento' in 2019 and continued with 'All Around the World' in 2020. These albums explored Hassell's concept of 'Fourth World' music, a fusion of electronic textures and global indigenous rhythms, aiming to evoke a sense of a world that never was but could be. Hassell, a pioneering trumpeter and composer, was known for his innovative use of electronic processing and his ability to blend disparate musical traditions into a cohesive and often otherworldly soundscape. His work influenced a generation of musicians across genres, from ambient and electronic to jazz and world music. The posthumous release of 'Music Is Invisible' offers listeners a final opportunity to engage with Hassell's unique artistic output and his enduring legacy in experimental music. David Torn, who also produced Hassell's previous albums, has been instrumental in bringing this final work to fruition, ensuring that Hassell's artistic intentions are honored. The 'Pentimento' trilogy represents a significant body of work that encapsulates Hassell's mature artistic philosophy and his ongoing exploration of sonic frontiers. The release is anticipated by fans and critics alike, eager to hear the culmination of Hassell's creative journey. The album's title, 'Music Is Invisible,' itself suggests a deeper exploration of the intangible qualities of sound and its power to evoke emotion and imagery beyond the literal. Hassell's career spanned several decades, during which he collaborated with numerous artists, including Brian Eno, Peter Gabriel, and Talking Heads, further cementing his reputation as a visionary artist. His influence can be traced in the work of many contemporary musicians who have adopted his experimental approaches to sound design and composition. The completion of the 'Pentimento' trilogy with 'Music Is Invisible' provides a definitive statement on Hassell's artistic trajectory and his profound impact on the landscape of modern music.