Pastoral Composure

Pastoral Composure is an album by American jazz pianist Matthew Shipp, recorded in 2000 and released on Thirsty Ear. It was the first installment of the Blue Series, a collection of releases curated by Shipp. He leads a quartet with trumpeter Roy Campbell, bassist William Parker and drummer Gerald Cleaver. The album includes a version of Duke Ellington composition "Prelude to a Kiss" and a rendition of the French traditional song "Frère Jacques".

Reception
In her review for AllMusic, Joslyn Layne states: "one of Shipp's more accessible albums, making it great place to start for those interested in checking out this important modern jazz pianist." The Pitchfork review by Matt LeMay claims: "It's remarkably complex and musically proficient, yet instantly accessible, and a keeper in every respect."

Track listing

 * All compositions by Matthew Shipp except as indicated


 * 1) "Gesture" – 6:49
 * 2) "Visions" – 7:56
 * 3) "Prelude to a Kiss" (Duke Ellington) – 4:38
 * 4) "Pastoral Composure" – 4:39
 * 5) "Progression" – 5:33
 * 6) "Frère Jacques" (Traditional) – 5:36
 * 7) "Merge" – 5:46
 * 8) "Inner Order" – 3:44
 * 9) "XTU" – 3:34

Personnel

 * Matthew Shipp - piano
 * Roy Campbell - trumpet, pocket trumpet, flugelhorn
 * William Parker – bass
 * Gerald Cleaver – drums