Caldera

Album Description

Dive into the world of avant-garde jazz with "Caldera," a live album by the legendary Sam Rivers Trio. Recorded on March 9, 2002, and released on September 30, 2022, this album captures the raw energy and improvisational genius of Sam Rivers, Doug Mathews, and Anthony Cole. The trio, known for their dynamic performances, delivers an hour and ten minutes of pure, unadulterated jazz magic.

"Caldera" is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sam Rivers, a multi-instrumentalist and composer who has left an indelible mark on the jazz world. The album features Rivers on tenor and soprano saxophone, flute, piano, and vocals, showcasing his versatility and mastery of multiple instruments. Doug Mathews contributes with his skillful playing on upright and electric bass, as well as bass clarinet, while Anthony Cole holds down the rhythm on drums.

The album's eight tracks, including improvisational pieces and solos, offer a glimpse into the trio's spontaneous and collaborative approach to music. From the opening "Improvisation I" to the closing "Improvisation III," each track is a journey into the depths of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde sounds. "Unity" and "Beatrice" are standout tracks that highlight the trio's ability to blend individual virtuosity with collective harmony.

"Caldera" is not just another album in the jazz canon; it's a historic document of a live performance that captures the essence of Sam Rivers' musical vision. The album's release on Rivbea Music, under the Archive Series - Volume 6, ensures that this exceptional performance is preserved for future generations of jazz enthusiasts to enjoy. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sam Rivers or a newcomer to his music, "Caldera" is an essential addition to any jazz collection.

September 30, 2022

2022 Rivbea Music

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.