Black Stars

Album Description

"Black Stars" is a captivating jazz album that showcases the masterful interplay between legendary saxophonist Sam Rivers and accomplished pianist Jason Moran. Released on January 1, 2001, under the prestigious Blue Note Records label, this album is a testament to the enduring power of improvisational jazz. Spanning just under an hour, the 11-track collection delves into a rich tapestry of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde styles, offering a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

The album opens with "Foot Under Foot," setting the tone for the eclectic and innovative journey that follows. Each track, from the energetic "Gangsterism On A River" to the contemplative "Earth Song," demonstrates the unique chemistry between Rivers and Moran. Their collaboration results in a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, paying homage to the jazz greats while pushing the boundaries of the genre.

"Black Stars" features a diverse range of compositions, each highlighting the individual strengths of Rivers and Moran. The intricate melodies and complex rhythms found in tracks like "Summit" and "The Sun At Midnight" showcase Rivers' virtuosic saxophone playing, while Moran's piano work adds layers of depth and texture. The album concludes with "Sound It Out," leaving the listener with a sense of satisfaction and a desire to revisit the earlier tracks.

This album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a rich and rewarding experience that celebrates the art of improvisation and the timeless appeal of jazz music.

1 januari 2001

℗ 2001 Blue Note Records

About Sam Rivers

Sam Rivers, a titan of the jazz world, was an American multi-instrumentalist and composer whose career spanned over seven decades. Born in Oklahoma in 1923, Rivers was a key figure in the development of free jazz and avant-garde music, known for his virtuosic skills on tenor and soprano saxophones, bass clarinet, flute, harmonica, piano, and even viola. His innovative approach to composition and performance made him a standout among his peers, collaborating with legends like Miles Davis and Cecil Taylor. Rivers' work was marked by its intensity and communicative power, making even the most complex free-form music accessible to a wide audience. In the 1970s, he pioneered the New York loft-jazz scene, opening the iconic Studio Rivbea, a cultural arts center that became a hub for jazz artists. His prolific career includes numerous albums as a leader and sideman, showcasing his unique musical vision and enduring influence on the jazz landscape.