"Black Stars," released on January 1, 2001, is a captivating jazz album led by the legendary Sam Rivers, featuring the young and talented pianist Jason Moran. This collaboration brings together two generations of jazz virtuosos, with Moran, just 26 at the time, and Rivers, a seasoned 77-year-old saxophonist, creating a unique blend of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde sounds. The album, released under Blue Note Records, spans 57 minutes and includes 11 tracks, each showcasing the dynamic interplay between Moran's piano and Rivers' versatile saxophone, flute, and tenor performances.
The album opens with "Foot Under Foot," setting the tone for the innovative and boundary-pushing music that follows. Tracks like "Kinda Dukish" and "Gangsterism On A River" highlight the album's hard bop influences, while "Earth Song" and "Summit" delve into the avant-garde and free jazz realms. "Say Peace" and "Draw The Light Out" offer moments of reflection and introspection, while "Out Front" and "The Sun At Midnight" showcase the duo's improvisational skills. The album concludes with "Skitter In" and "Sound It Out," leaving listeners with a sense of the album's rich musical journey.
"Black Stars" is a testament to the enduring power of jazz and the magic that happens when two masterful musicians come together. Whether you're a long-time fan of Sam Rivers or a newcomer to Jason Moran's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The intricate compositions and spontaneous performances make "Black Stars" a standout release in the world of contemporary jazz.
Vinylscout