Eric Dolphy: Out to Lunch
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Musicians:
Eric Dolphy (alto sax), Freddie Hubbard (trumpet), Bobby Hutcherson (vibes), Richard Davis (bass), Tony Williams (drums).
Recorded: Englewood Cliffs, N.J., February 25, 1964
Rating: 95/100 (learn more)
Eric Dolphy, artwork by Michael Symonds
Although influenced initially by Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy went on to develop a unique style of his own. His harsh tone, wide intervallic leaps, and freshly minted angular phrases are all on display in this free jazz recording made when he was at his peak, just months before his untimely death. His colleagues, though not all normally associated with the avant-garde, rise to the occasion and provide him with an agreeable setting.
Reviewer: David Franklin
Tags: 1960s jazz · alto sax · blue note
Calling this record 'free jazz' betrays a cursory listen. It is indeed in the avant-garde, but it wasn't the total abandonment of all form that characterized the turn jazz would take after the period this record was released. Dolphy's compositions are clear and defined, the playing precise, with every note deliberately placed. To echo a sentiment from Anthony Braxton, many musicians used free jazz as an excuse not to practice. Dolphy was known for being diligent at practicing his instruments, and this album is testament to all that effort.