Eric Dolphy's "Out To Lunch," released on September 1, 1964, under Blue Note Records, is a landmark album that stands as a testament to his innovative spirit and musical brilliance. This album is a captivating journey through the realms of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde, showcasing Dolphy's adventurous and self-consistent approach to freedom within the confines of established jazz structures.
Recorded in February 1964, "Out To Lunch" features a stellar quintet of modern jazz visionaries, including Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Bobby Hutcherson on vibraphone, Richard Davis on bass, Tony Williams on drums, and Eric Dolphy himself on various instruments. The album's title track, "Out To Lunch," along with other gems like "Hat And Beard," "Something Sweet, Something Tender," "Gazzelloni," and "Straight Up And Down," are all remastered in 1998 by Rudy Van Gelder, ensuring a crisp and clear listening experience.
With a runtime of 42 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Dolphy's musical genius. "Out To Lunch" is widely regarded as Dolphy's magnum opus and one of the great Blue Note recordings, highlighting his unique ability to blend various jazz styles into a cohesive and groundbreaking body of work. The album's intricate compositions and virtuosic performances make it a timeless piece that continues to inspire and captivate jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike.