Sam Rivers / Dave Holland

Album Description

"Sam Rivers / Dave Holland," released in January 1977, is a captivating exploration of jazz's avant-garde and hard bop realms, featuring the masterful interplay between legendary saxophonist Sam Rivers and acclaimed bassist Dave Holland. This album, originally recorded in Paris in April 1977, showcases the duo's extraordinary chemistry, accompanied by the dynamic drumming of Barry Altschul.

The album comprises two extended tracks, "Ripples" and "Deluge," each offering a deep dive into the artists' improvisational prowess. "Ripples," spanning nearly 24 minutes, is a testament to the musicians' ability to weave intricate melodies and rhythms, while "Deluge" continues the exploration with its own unique sonic landscape. Rivers, known for his versatility, switches seamlessly between tenor and soprano sax, flute, and even piano, adding layers of complexity and richness to the performances.

Dave Holland, with his distinctive bass playing, complements Rivers perfectly, creating a dialogue that is both intense and intimate. The album's recording history adds to its allure, with sessions taking place in both Paris and Milan, capturing the essence of the musicians' live performances.

"Sam Rivers / Dave Holland" is a seminal work in the jazz canon, highlighting the innovative spirit of the genre. It's a compelling listen for both jazz enthusiasts and those looking to explore the boundaries of improvisational music. The album's enduring appeal lies in its raw, unfiltered energy and the sheer virtuosity of its performers.

1 januari 1977

(P) 1977 Improvising Artists aka IAI 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.