Dimensions & Extensions

Album Description

Dive into the avant-garde jazz masterpiece "Dimensions & Extensions" by the legendary Sam Rivers, a seminal work that showcases the saxophonist's boundary-pushing genius. Originally recorded in 1967 but not released until 2008, this album is a testament to Rivers' innovative spirit and his enduring influence on the genre. The reissue, mastered by the renowned Rudy Van Gelder, brings new clarity and depth to these timeless tracks, making it a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

"Dimensions & Extensions" features a sextet that includes jazz heavyweights Donald Byrd on trumpet and James Spaulding on alto saxophone, among others. The album's six tracks—"Precis," "Paean," "Effusive Melange," "Involution," "Afflatus," and "Helix"—are a blend of free jazz, hard bop, and avant-garde elements, each piece pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz structures. The album's ambitious and atonal nature challenges listeners, offering a rich and complex listening experience that rewards repeated plays.

This reissued album, part of the RVG Edition series, is a must-listen for fans of innovative jazz. The original 1967 session, finally available in its intended form, reveals a group sound that has influenced generations of musicians. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Sam Rivers or a newcomer to his work, "Dimensions & Extensions" is a captivating exploration of jazz's limitless possibilities.

1 januari 2008

℗ 2008 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.