10. The Shape of Jazz To Come - Ornette Coleman.

 The late 1950's must have been an exciting time for jazz players. It seems that innovation and exploration of new styles were turning the established rules on their head. Structures were being broken down and fluidity and improvisation were coming to the forefront. Miles Davis had released "Kind of Blue", which was a departure from chord structures and based more on scales and modes of scales for improvisation. Ornette Coleman took that and ran with it. This album is considered a stepping stone into the world of free jazz or avant garde jazz. Clearly, boundaries are being challenged here.

 After the smooth flow of "Kind of Blue", I put this one on, expecting something along the same lines. The first track, "Lonely Woman", is considered a jazz standard. Within  ten seconds I knew this was going to be a completely different experience. There are two horns playing a melody, but it is slightly disjointed, just enough to be a little unnerving. I have to admit, that it is growing on me the more I listen to it, but at first I was uncomfortable with it. The horns are shrill, and in your face. The background is busy and doesn't necessarily follow the feel of the horns. It actually makes me a little uneasy, it certainly isn't relaxing to my ear. The musicianship must be excellent, because you have to know the rules to break them well. 

 There are only six tracks, and the album lasts for thirty nine minutes. There is very fast playing on "Eventually", a very busy track that might be a reflection on mental illness. I'm trying to figure out where he is going with this stuff. It is well outside my comfort zone. However, I am a huge fan of structure, which is precisely what Coleman is moving away from. My favourite track is the third one, "Peace", which has a walking bassline, and is the friendliest piece on the album, albeit with some crazy soloing at times over top of the rhythm section.

 It seems that sometimes the notes aren't quite true. Especially when the trumpet and sax are playing the same melody, there is just something that doesn't seem quite right. I am certain that this is intentional. I think that is what was making me uneasy. It does get better the more you listen, but like most innovations, you have your supporters and detractors. It's quite possible that I am just not ready for this yet. And honestly, I doubt that I will ever be. Funnily enough the fourth song is called "Focus on Sanity" and it is a return to the free form madness of the first two tracks. I think that Ornette has a sense of humour.

 Rolling Stone placed this one at 243 on their 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. It is undeniable that this music was groundbreaking and led to the formation of a new genre of jazz. And it does grow on you. I still say it smacks of insanity. The vibe is comparable to the peaceful feeling you would get after giving a hyperactive six year old coffee to drink. The musicianship is obviously excellent, but the arrangements are beyond my redline. Challenge yourself and give it a try.

Buy it here.