Paragon

Album Description

"Paragon," released on January 1, 1977, is a seminal work by the legendary jazz innovator Sam Rivers. This album, issued under the Rivbea Music label, is a testament to Rivers' versatility and mastery across multiple jazz genres, including free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde. Clocking in at just 36 minutes, "Paragon" is a concise yet powerful exploration of sound and improvisation.

The album features a stellar lineup, with Sam Rivers on saxophone and flute, accompanied by the renowned bassist Dave Holland. Together, they weave a tapestry of complex rhythms and harmonies that showcase their individual virtuosity and collective chemistry. The tracklist, consisting of "Ecstasy," "Bliss," "Rapture," "Tingle," and the titular "Paragon," offers a journey through various moods and textures, from intense and energetic to introspective and serene.

"Paragon" is notable for being the first album issued by the short-lived Fluid label, adding a layer of historical significance to its musical merits. The first pressing of the album is particularly coveted, featuring bold signatures by both Sam Rivers and Dave Holland on the front cover. This album is a vital addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, offering a glimpse into the creative prowess of two of the genre's most influential figures.

1 januari 1977

2015 Rivbea Music

1977 Rivbea Music

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.