( 3 reviews )
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( 1 of 2 found this review helpful ) Posted: May 4 2005
This CD (contrary to the misleading title listed on amazon.com) is in fact the entire two volume release of "Nuits de la Fondation Maeght" on one CD. The last recorded performance from Albert Ayler, this shows him returning closer to the form of the mid-60s than his late '60s flirtation with rock music. Accompanied by Call Cobbs (piano), the nearly inaudible Steve Tintweiss (bass), and unsympathetic drummer Alan Blairman, Ayler manages to overcome a number of obstacles and puts together a great performance. Cobbs performs largely in a gospel (or almost baroque) vein, and is very much in concert with Ayler's idiom as the leader wails, largely avoiding the polyphonics he was known for in favor of more linear lines, exclusively on the tenor. He plays with a fire and passion, exploring the extreme upper register of the instrument. Unfortuantely, neither Tintweiss nor Blairman seem particularly interested in playing what Ayler is playing-- this is most readily apparent on "Holy Family", one of the few songs where the bass is audible-- its as though the two of them are playing a totally different song, in particular Blairman. Still, even without any real support, Ayler and Cobb manage a staggering performance-- Ayler is particularly passionate on searing theme statements for "In Heart Only", "Spirits Rejoice", and "Truth is Marching In", and the two turn out a stunning pairing (regardless of the out of place accompaniment) on "Spirits" (which sounds to me like variations on "New Ghosts" from "New Grass"). Mary Parks shows up for one track, the set closer "Music is the Healing Force of the Universe"-- her presence is additive and the song is decent enough. Overall, this is a decent live record-- it could be better were the bassist and drummer in step with Ayler. Sonicaly, this edition is superb, the sound is crisp and clean, stunningly so for a live recording of this era. This is not a good place to begin digging for Ayler, but for fans, even those who dislike his late period, this is a great recording.
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( 3 of 3 found this review helpful ) Posted: Aug 16 2004
albert ayler's late career was marred by bad decisions, unwise choices in musical direction, and tragedy. but in these final two performances in france, 1970, he and his band trail through the night weaving a dense and beautiful pattern of illumination. if there was inner turmoil within himself or his band members...it's certainly hard to tell based on the strength of these performances. the drums roll along with purpose while the bass carves out solid frames of deep feeling. the piano weaves in and out of the air, stealing moments of fragile space, all the while ayler's sax soars and billows above the rumble with the call of a divine power. i imagine these are the kinds of songs played by a salvation army made up of ghosts and spirits. hard edged free-jazz collides with dixieland anthems and gospel melodies embrace drunken hobos whistling a long forgotten tune. mary parks' vocals grace the final song "music is the healing force of the universe" and although the lyrics may induce a small chuckle, the song carries itself and it's audience along for the ride. a truly great live cd that never fails to take the listener to new heights.
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( 3 of 4 found this review helpful ) Posted: Feb 11 2003
For long i had the tapes and the old records; there is a lot more on the tapes. I got them from the radio. you couldn't imagine the revolution in sound.i recomend these songs to anyone who want to know what was the spirit of 68
