Freebody Park, Newport 1965

"Freebody Park, Newport 1965" by Cecil Taylor is a captivating live album that captures the essence of a groundbreaking performance at the Newport Jazz Festival on July 2, 1965. This release, marking Cecil Taylor's appearance at the festival, showcases his unique and radical approach to jazz, blending free jazz, avant-garde, and hard bop elements into a dynamic and innovative sound. The album features three extended live tracks: "Steps," "Unit Structure," and "Tales (8 Whisps)," each offering a deep dive into Taylor's virtuosic piano playing and his band's improvisational prowess. The correct lineup for this performance includes Jimmy Lyons on alto saxophone, Bill Barron on tenor saxophone, Henry Grimes on bass, and Andrew Cyrille on drums, all of whom contribute to the album's intense and exploratory nature. Originally broadcast on WKCR-FM radio, this recording has been meticulously preserved and released in 2024 by Equinox, complete with a detailed booklet featuring rare archival photographs and insightful liner notes. "Freebody Park, Newport 1965" is a testament to Cecil Taylor's enduring influence and his pivotal role in shaping the landscape of modern jazz.