Volunteered Slavery

Album Description

Rahsaan Roland Kirk's "Volunteered Slavery," released in 2005, is a vibrant and eclectic journey through the realms of free jazz, hard bop, and bebop. This album, originally recorded in 1968, captures the essence of Kirk's innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music. With a blend of studio recordings and live performances from the Newport Jazz Festival, the album showcases Kirk's virtuosity on multiple instruments, including his signature stritch, flute, and manzello.

The album opens with the title track, "Volunteered Slavery," setting the tone for a collection that is both introspective and exhilarating. Tracks like "Spirits up Above" and "Ma Cherie Amour" highlight Kirk's ability to infuse traditional jazz with a modern twist, while "Search for the Reason Why" and "I Say a Little Prayer" offer a more contemplative side of his artistry. The live tracks from the Newport Jazz Festival, including "Roland's Opening Remarks" and "One Ton," provide a raw and energetic glimpse into Kirk's live performances, showcasing his improvisational skills and charismatic stage presence.

"Volunteered Slavery" is a testament to Rahsaan Roland Kirk's genius and his enduring influence on the jazz genre. The album's diverse range of styles and moods makes it a compelling listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to Kirk's music. Whether you're drawn to the intricate melodies, the powerful solos, or the historical significance of the live recordings, this album offers a rich and rewarding musical experience.

October 18, 2005

℗ 2005 Atlantic Recording Corp. Manufactured & Marketed by Warner Strategic Marketing

About Rahsaan Roland Kirk

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.