Black Stars

Album Description

"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.

1 januari 2001

℗ 2001 Blue Note Records

About Sam Rivers

Sam Rivers was a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his innovative and exploratory style that left an indelible mark on the genres of free jazz and avant-garde. Born in Oklahoma, Rivers grew up in Chicago and Little Rock, honing his skills on a variety of instruments including the tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, bass clarinet, flute, harmonica, piano, and viola. His career spanned over seven decades, during which he collaborated with legendary musicians like Miles Davis and Cecil Taylor, and even spearheaded the 1970s loft-jazz scene in New York. Rivers was not just a musician but a cultural pioneer, opening one of the first jazz cultural arts centers in Greenwich Village, providing a platform for artists to exhibit their talents. His discography is a testament to his versatility and creativity, with a prolific output that includes both solo works and collaborations. Rivers' music is a journey through the depths of jazz, characterized by his unique approach to spontaneous composition and his ability to blend various musical elements into a cohesive and captivating sound.