Lazuli

Album Description

"Lazuli," released on January 1, 1990, by the legendary Sam Rivers, is a captivating journey through the realms of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde. This album, a testament to Rivers' virtuosity, features a collection of ten tracks that showcase his mastery of the saxophone and his innovative approach to composition. The album, released under Timeless Records, is a testament to the timeless appeal of jazz, blending traditional elements with avant-garde experimentation.

The album opens with "Swirl," setting the tone for the eclectic mix of styles that follow. Tracks like "Dominant" and "Chant" highlight Rivers' ability to blend hard bop with free jazz, creating a sound that is both familiar and groundbreaking. "Lazuli," the title track, is a standout piece, featuring Rivers alongside Anthony Cole on bass and Doug Mathews on drums, delivering a performance that is both intense and introspective. The album's diverse instrumentation and improvisational spirit make it a standout in Rivers' discography.

"Lazuli" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and rhythm, a celebration of jazz in all its forms. From the intricate melodies of "Coral" to the haunting beauty of "Beatrice," each track offers a unique perspective on the genre. The album's duration of 53 minutes ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the world of Sam Rivers, making it a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Rivers or new to his music, "Lazuli" is an album that demands to be experienced.

1 januari 1990

(P) 1990 Timeless 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.