Iron Man

Album review

This is one of two CDs that document the most innovative studio sessions in Eric Dolphy's musical career. Both appear for the first time with their original LP cover artwork and digitally remastered from the original stereo tapes produced by Alan Douglas in the summer of 1963. Although it was not released until 1968, the tracks for Eric Dolphy’s “Iron Man” were recorded at the same sessions that produced the album “Conversations” released through FM Records (now available through the Roulette Record catalogue). This all went down about one year before Dolphy released his art jazz masterpiece, “Out to Lunch”, so needless to say, the material on “Iron Man” is outstanding and a must have for any Dolphy fan. Although Eric and Sun Ra are both well known leaders in the world of avant-garde jazz, you do not normally hear much similarities in their music, except on this CD on which Dolphy is working with a mini big band ensemble that often carries a very Ra like sound in its arrangements and orchestrations.
« Eric Dolphy and producer Alan Douglas decided to experiment with Eric's original compositions. Two approaches were agreed upon. One was of clear simplicity; Eric on reed instruments and Richard Davis on bass. The other was more involved – a ten piece orchestra of young men who understood and admired Eric's work. The recording sessions took place late at night in a very relaxed studio for five successive nights. In this environment the playing of Eric Dolphy, Richard Davis and the other musicians was unbelievably inspired. So much was created, individual compositions went from 'almost commercial' to 'very far out.' In the absence of a piano, Bobby Hutcherson's vibes are a crucial anchor, outlining dissonant harmonies that hang in the air almost spectrally behind the rest of the group. Most of the same musicians from "Conversations" appear here, including trumpeter Woody Shaw, flutist Prince Lasha, altoist Sonny Simmons, and soprano sax player Clifford Jordan. And once again, Dolphy duets with bassist Richard Davis, twice this time on bass clarinet for Ellington's "Come Sunday" and on flute for Jaki Byard's "Ode to C.P."
Eric died in 1964, and he would have been happy to know this L.P. has been released. Douglas International thanks Mrs. Sadie Dolphy, Eric's mother, and John Carter for their help in recreating one of the most imaginative experiences in Eric Dolphy's musical career.» (From the inside liner notes)

« In tribute to Eric Dolphy (1928-1964): Whatever I'd say would be an understatment. I can only say my life was made much better by knowing Eric. He was one of the the greatest people Ive ever known, as a man, a friend, and a musician.» (John Coltrane)