Jimmy Giuffre 3, 1961

Album Description

Dive into the innovative world of Jimmy Giuffre with his seminal work, "Jimmy Giuffre 3, 1961." Released in 1992 by ECM Records, this double album is a reissue of two groundbreaking recordings from 1961, "Fusion" and "Thesis," both originally released on Verve. These sessions capture the essence of Jimmy Giuffre's forward-thinking approach to jazz, blending cool and free jazz elements in a way that was ahead of its time.

The album features Jimmy Giuffre on clarinet, accompanied by the exceptional Paul Bley on piano and Steve Swallow on double bass. The trio's chemistry is palpable throughout the 20 tracks, which span a total of 1 hour and 31 minutes. The music is characterized by its intricate compositions, improvisational brilliance, and a unique sense of harmony that sets it apart from other jazz recordings of the era.

"Jimmy Giuffre 3, 1961" includes standout tracks such as "Jesus Maria," "Carla," and "Whirrrr," each showcasing the trio's ability to push the boundaries of jazz. The album was remastered and remixed in 1990 at Rainbow Studio in Oslo, ensuring that the sound quality is as crisp and vibrant as the day it was recorded.

This reissue is a testament to Jimmy Giuffre's enduring influence on the jazz genre, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience the innovative spirit of his 1961 recordings. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply appreciate great music, "Jimmy Giuffre 3, 1961" is an essential addition to your collection.

March 1, 1992

℗ 1992 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Universal Music Classics & Jazz - a division of Universal Music GmbH

About Jimmy Giuffre

Jimmy Giuffre was a pioneering American jazz musician, composer, and arranger whose innovative spirit continually pushed the boundaries of the genre. Born in Dallas, Texas, in 1921, Giuffre began his musical journey on the clarinet at a young age and later mastered the saxophone and guitar. He is renowned for his development of jazz forms that emphasized free interplay and improvisation, anticipating the free jazz movement.

Giuffre's career spanned over five decades, during which he explored various styles, from the cool jazz of the West Coast to the avant-garde. He is perhaps best known for his work with Woody Herman, where he co-wrote the iconic "Four Brothers" arrangement, and for leading influential trios that featured a drummerless format, allowing for unique musical dialogues.

His compositions and arrangements bridged diverse musical traditions, connecting swing, modernism, free jazz, and even folk music. Despite his groundbreaking work, Giuffre's eclectic approach sometimes led to obscurity, as he didn't fit neatly into conventional jazz categories. However, his impact on the jazz world is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and enthusiasts alike.