Something Else!!!! The Music Of Ornette Coleman

Something Else!!!! The Music Of Ornette Coleman- Album Overview

Released in 1958 by Atlantic Records, "Something Else!!!! The Music Of Ornette Coleman" is a landmark album in the free jazz genre, showcasing the innovative spirit of saxophonist Ornette Coleman. This pivotal recording features Coleman on alto saxophone, alongside an impressive lineup of musicians including Don Cherry on pocket trumpet, Charlie Haden on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums. The album was produced by the esteemed Nesuhi Ertegun and is notable for its groundbreaking approach to harmony and rhythm, shattering conventional jazz norms.

The sessions for "Something Else!!!!" took place at the Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, a hub for jazz recordings during the era. The album opens with the iconic "Lonely Woman," a piece that has since become synonymous with Coleman's style, blending emotional intensity with a unique melodic structure. Other standout tracks include "Just for You," "Congeniality," and "Focus on Sanity," each contributing to the album's rich tapestry of sound.

The cultural significance of this album cannot be overstated; it was one of the first to exemplify the principles of free jazz, emphasizing collective improvisation and emotional expression over traditional chord changes. In a time when jazz was heavily influenced by bebop, Coleman’s radical approach paved the way for future generations of musicians, cementing his legacy as a visionary artist. "Something Else!!!!" not only challenged listeners but also redefined jazz, placing Ornette Coleman firmly at the forefront of the avant-garde movement.

Review

The sound of "Something Else!!!!" is as vibrant and urgent as it is exploratory. Coleman's alto saxophone weaves in and out of melodic lines, often eschewing traditional forms for a more organic, spontaneous style. The interplay between Coleman and Cherry creates a dialogue that is both playful and profound, while Haden's bass provides a solid yet fluid foundation, allowing for the music's inherent freedom to flourish. The recording's production captures the raw energy of the performances, making listeners feel as if they are part of the intimate setting.

Unlike typical jazz records of the time, the absence of traditional chord progressions leads to an exhilarating unpredictability. The album's arrangements encourage each musician to explore their own voice within the collective sound, exemplifying Coleman's belief in the power of improvisation. While some listeners may find the lack of structure challenging, it is precisely this element that makes "Something Else!!!!" a cornerstone of modern jazz. The album encapsulates not just a moment in music history but a philosophy that continues to inspire artists across genres.

Highlights

• The innovative use of collective improvisation that defines the album's sound.
• Ornette Coleman's emotive and expressive saxophone playing, particularly on "Lonely Woman."
• A groundbreaking production style that captures the essence of free jazz.

Weak points

• The unconventional sound may alienate traditional jazz purists.
• Some tracks may feel disjointed to casual listeners unfamiliar with free jazz.
• The album's experimental nature might require multiple listens to fully appreciate.

Overall evaluation

"Something Else!!!! The Music Of Ornette Coleman" is an essential listening experience that challenges the boundaries of jazz and artistic expression. Its innovative spirit and emotional depth ensure its place in the pantheon of great jazz albums.