"Old and New Dreams" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary trumpeter Don Cherry, released in 1979 under the ECM Records label. This album is a testament to the power of improvisation and the beauty of free jazz, featuring a stellar quartet that includes the incomparable Dewey Redman on saxophone, Charlie Haden on bass, and Ed Blackwell on drums. Recorded in Oslo in August 1979 and produced by Manfred Eicher, this vinyl reissue includes new liner notes that provide a rich historical context and background to the music.
The album opens with "Lonely Woman," a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases the quartet's ability to blend raw emotion with technical prowess. The tracklist also includes "Togo," inspired by a Ghanaian traditional melody, and "Song for the Whales," a composition written with respect for all species of whales. Each track is a journey into the depths of jazz, where the boundaries of tradition and innovation are constantly explored and expanded.
"Old and New Dreams" is not just an album; it's an experience. The interplay between Cherry's trumpet and Redman's saxophone is nothing short of magical, while Haden and Blackwell provide a rhythmic foundation that is both solid and adventurous. The album's 46-minute runtime is filled with moments of pure musical genius, making it a timeless piece in the world of avant-garde jazz. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.