Dive into the avant-garde world of Albert Ayler with his controversial and eclectic album "New Grass," originally released in 1969 on the Impulse! label and now reissued by Verve Reissues. This 33-minute journey through free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde styles is a mixed bag of rock, gospel, and soul, all overlaid with Ayler's distinctive "fire music" technique on the saxophone.
Recorded in New York City on September 5 and 6, 1968, "New Grass" features a stellar lineup including Buddy Lucas, Bernard Purdie, Bill Folwell, and Call Cobbs, among others. The album opens with the track "Message From Albert," setting the tone for a unique exploration of sound and style. Tracks like "New Grass, New Generation" and "Sun Watcher" showcase Ayler's innovative approach to jazz, while "Heart Love" and "Everybody's Movin'" bring in elements of gospel and pop, creating a sound that is both familiar and groundbreaking.
Ayler's playing is as intense and unpredictable as ever, but it's the context of these gospel-inspired pop songs that makes "New Grass" stand out. The album is a testament to Ayler's willingness to experiment and push boundaries, making it a fascinating listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to his work. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or simply curious about the avant-garde, "New Grass" offers a compelling glimpse into the mind of one of jazz's most daring innovators.
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