Eric Dolphy’s Out To Lunch is a classic of avant-garde jazz, recorded in 1964 and hailed as an instant masterpiece. It’s a wild, uncompromising album, full of dissonance and unexpected turns, and it sounds as fresh today as it did back then.
Dolphy was an innovator, always pushing the boundaries of jazz, and this album is a perfect example of his artistry. The musicianship is extraordinary, with Dolphy’s saxophone and flute playing weaving in and out of the other instruments, creating a tapestry of sound. There’s a great balance of composition and improvisation, with Dolphy’s compositions providing the framework for the musicians to stretch out and explore.
Highlights include the title track, with its angular melody and relentless energy, and the soulful ‘Gazzelloni’, which features some of Dolphy’s most lyrical playing.
Out To Lunch is an essential part of any jazz collection, and it’s a timeless testament to Dolphy’s genius.