Simmer, Reduce, Garnish & Serve

Dive into the vibrant and eclectic world of Rahsaan Roland Kirk with his 1995 album "Simmer, Reduce, Garnish & Serve." This compilation is a treasure trove of tracks drawn from Kirk's final three albums, showcasing his unparalleled mastery over free jazz, hard bop, bebop, and more. With a runtime of over an hour and thirteen minutes, the album is a testament to Kirk's innovative spirit and his ability to blend various musical styles seamlessly.

The album opens with "Lunatic Danza," setting the stage for a journey through Kirk's unique musical landscape. Standout tracks like "Theme for the Eulipions" and "Serenade to a Cuckoo" highlight his virtuosity and creativity, while classics such as "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "Summertime" offer a nod to the jazz tradition. Kirk's playful and experimental approach is evident in tracks like "Hey Babebips" and "Watergate Blues," where he pushes the boundaries of conventional jazz.

"Simmer, Reduce, Garnish & Serve" is not just a collection of songs; it's a celebration of Rahsaan Roland Kirk's genius. His ability to play multiple instruments simultaneously and his distinctive sound are on full display, making this album a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Kirk's work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the breadth and depth of his musical legacy.

Rahsaan Roland Kirk, born Roland Kirk in 1935, was a pioneering American jazz musician whose innovative techniques and remarkable versatility left an indelible mark on the genre. Blind from the age of two, Kirk's musical journey began in the 1950s, and he quickly gained recognition for his ability to play multiple horns simultaneously, creating a unique and captivating sound. Kirk was a true post-modernist, blending elements of free jazz, hard bop, bebop, and more, to create a continuum of jazz that was entirely his own. His virtuosity on the saxophone was unparalleled, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting soloists in jazz history. Beyond his musical prowess, Kirk was a visionary and a mystic, inspiring a wide range of artists, from Jimi Hendrix to Frank Zappa. His albums, such as "Prepare Thyself To Deal With A Miracle," "Rip, Rig and Panic," and "Blacknuss," are testaments to his genius and continue to captivate audiences today. Kirk's legacy as a composer, arranger, and bandleader is a testament to his enduring influence on jazz and music as a whole.