Eric Dolphy – Outward Bound (Black Vinyl)

Dolphy’s groundbreaking debut blending avant-garde innovation with hard bop brilliance, featuring stellar performances by Freddie Hubbard, Jaki Byard, and Roy Haynes.

Eric Dolphy’s Outward Bound (1960) is a landmark album in jazz, showcasing his adventurous approach as a multi-instrumentalist on alto saxophone, flute, and bass clarinet. This debut under his own name captures Dolphy’s blend of avant-garde sensibilities with strong ties to hard bop traditions. The recording features an exceptional lineup: Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Jackie Byard on piano, George Tucker on bass, and Roy Haynes on drums. Each sideman adds their distinct voice to the album’s unique sound.

Recorded in a single session on April 1, 1960, at Van Gelder Studio, the album stands out for its mix of compositional sophistication and improvisational freedom. Key tracks include “G.W.,” a lively tribute to Dolphy’s mentor Gerald Wilson, and “245,” a driving hard bop piece featuring dynamic interplay. With its boundary-pushing yet accessible sound, Outward Bound remains an essential listen for anyone exploring jazz’s transformative era.

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