. . . or click on the link here for Audio Player – Ornette Coleman – Live At The Tivoli, Copenhagen – Nov. 30, 1965 – DR Radio
A departure from our usual Rock fare. The news of the passing of Ornette Coleman earlier today was a stunning blow and it’s only fitting to play a tribute to him tonight.
I guess we’re going to have to get used to the sad fact that, the longer we’re on the planet, the more people who have been around to shape, influence and help define our lives are going.
The sad news that Ornette Coleman passed away today at age 85 is a true loss for the Music world. Ornette Coleman was an innovator and pioneer, and through his spirit and vision rewrote the language of Jazz and to many who were influenced by him, freed it up to new and exciting possibilities and challenges to those who listened.
News reports and blog posts have been filled with tributes and observances and recollections. There is nothing I can add, save for an example of the extraordinary musician and visionary he was – a chance to hear him perform in concert. And the only way to appreciate his art and the person behind the art is to hear the artist perform and say it all for himself.
So I have included a concert he performed with his Trio in 1965. With David Izenzon on bass and Charles Moffett on drums. A concert performed in Copenhagen at the famed Tivoli Theatre on November 30, 1965 and recorded for posterity by DanskRadio.
If you aren’t familiar with the music of Ornette Coleman or Free Jazz, this might take a little getting used to. But he was a pivotal figure in the history of Jazz and modern Music – he changed the landscape. Like all innovators, he was met with a lot of resistance by the establishment and the mainstream. But he persevered, and with time became acknowledged as one of the true originals and major forces in Jazz over the last 50 years. His contributions can’t be short-changed or marginalized. He was the real deal.
Fans of Ornette Coleman already know, and the sense of loss is palpable, but the contribution will be around for a very very long time.
Play with your eyes closed.
RIP: Ornette Coleman.
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