Release date: 23-07-2003(originally released in 1960)

US exclusive limited edition 2-track LP pressed on HIGH DEFINITION PREMIUM 180gram VIRGIN VINYL, originally released in 1960. 'Free Jazz' is a milestone in spontaneous group improvisation using 2 separate quartets panned to each side of the stereo spectrum [left channel: alto sax, pocket trumpet, bass, drums; right channel: bass clarinet, trumpet, bass, drums] that caused a great deal of controversy at the time - could this really be jazz? A fascinating, radical document and historical companion piece to Joe Harriott's 'Free Form' recorded that same year. Presented in sealed & stickered gatefold sleeve with extensive sleeve notes from Martin Williams detailing the various 'sections' of the piece

Tracks:
1. Free Jazz [part 1]
2. Free Jazz [part 2]

By 1960, Ornette Coleman had already stirred an enormous controversy in the jazz world-- his first three albums on Atlantic (two early recordings on Contemporary failed to garner much attention) and tenure at Manhattan's Five Spot club had polarized musicians, critics, and listeners. And yet, over forty years later, it's clear that Coleman was onto something, and his influence can be felt throughout music afterwards, whether acknowledged by the musician or not, whether accepted and adopted or rejected. After 1960, Coleman rejected most of the expectations for a musician-- playing clubs, touring, album after album, mellowing with age, regurgitation of old songs, etc. Indeed, throughout the years he has continued to stir the pot, if a bit more gently than he did when he first reached New York. But nothing he has done has created such an enormous polarizing effect as this record, "Free Jazz
Personally, I find it one of the most consistently interesting and rewarding records Coleman did during his tenure with Atlantic, and the concepts on here informed his music for years to come (Prime Time in particular is very much an electric version of this record). This album adds the bonus of the rehearsal for the piece-- it's significantly briefer (under twenty minutes), but no less interesting. For the adventerous and the fan of avant-garde jazz, this is an essential recording. Highly recommended.-By Michael Stack