The Shape of Jazz to Come

Interesting. Definitely had the shape of future music. Feels like they found the edge of their ability.

A little spastic for my tastes, but I am glad to have listened to it. 2.5/5

This is like the speed metal of jazz. Absolutely stellar talent.

Favourite songs: Eventually, Chronology, Congeniality, Peace

Least favourite songs: Lonely Woman

4/5

How was this not on the list? Great jazz album, Coleman is known for his controversial style back in the 50s, but this would go on to be an extremely forward thinking jazz album. A very chaotic album, you can see why it was edgy at the time, there are some moments of normalcy, such as on Peace, but it promptly goes back to the chaotic saxophone.

I think this is an especially good pick because it gives context to John Zorn's brilliant Spy vs. Spy album from the main list, which was a cover album of Coleman's work.


Should it be in the main list: Yes 100%. Obviously Coleman was important enough to be in the main list indirectly.

Top 3 songs: Lonely Woman, Eventually, Chronology

Kelpo jazz-platta! 4/5

Iconic album, album title, and album cover. And it really did shape jazz for the decade following. Even if Sun Ra and others preceded this album, this put free jazz on the map. Should have been on the original list. And all of that makes me sad I'm giving this a three star, but it was sort of inevitable. I'm starting to understand jazz bit by bit as I listen to iconic record after iconic record, but that doesn't mean I can always stomach the twists and turns it provides. Still, this album has earned its flowers, and I'm glad that it has been received warmly on the user list, at least compared to the main list's tribute to Coleman.

I could have sworn we got this one on the main list, but looks like I was remembering the John Zorn thing that shouted out Coleman. Loose & fun, although I think on the whole I liked the experimentation of later jazz even more

This was great, some of Miles Davis' enthusiasm and intense clouds of emotion, but different and varied. So amazing how this collection of instruments can produce music that has such different shapes and forms, but I guess that's the point.

Ornette Coleman coming on the scene and tearing jazz a new asshole is one of my favorite things.

If you asked me what Jazz album is missing from the list I’d say this one. Even more ridiculous that spy vs spy is on the list. Saying that personally it’s not a jazz album I really connect with I find it a bit hard work and complex, I prefer the more accessible bebop jazz. But you can’t argue enough the importance of this album.

I don’t know. I like this album. It’s good. But it’s not as avant as I’d expected. When I see avant-garde or free tags on jazz, I expect craziness. This music is a bit safer. I will say this, though, there's something in this music that extends beyond America's borders. Can't quite put my finger on it. I think it's the way the bass rhythms interact.