"Crosscurrent" is a live album by the legendary jazz multi-instrumentalist Sam Rivers, recorded on January 1, 1981, at the Jazz Unité festival. This captivating release, featuring the Sam Rivers Quartet, is a testament to Rivers' virtuosity and his significant contributions to the free jazz and avant-garde scenes. The album is a dynamic blend of hard bop and free jazz, showcasing Rivers' mastery of the saxophone, flute, and piano.
"Crosscurrent" spans a concise yet intense 38 minutes, packed with eight powerful tracks that highlight the quartet's improvisational prowess. The album opens with "Swirl," setting the tone for the exhilarating journey that follows. Standout tracks like "Riptide" and "Rapture" demonstrate the band's ability to seamlessly transition between structured compositions and free-form improvisation. The album concludes with "Eddy," leaving the audience with a sense of the quartet's boundless creativity.
Released under the Rivbea Music label, "Crosscurrent" is a live recording that captures the raw energy and spontaneity of a live performance. The album is a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and anyone interested in the avant-garde and free jazz genres. Sam Rivers' "Crosscurrent" is a timeless addition to any jazz collection, offering a glimpse into the innovative and boundary-pushing world of live jazz performance.