Ornette Coleman ‎– Change Of The Century VG+/VG

“Change of the Century” is a seminal album by the innovative jazz saxophonist and composer Ornette Coleman, released in October 1960. This album stands as a cornerstone of the free jazz movement, a genre that Coleman was instrumental in pioneering. Following the release of his groundbreaking album “The Shape of Jazz to Come” in 1959, “Change of the Century” further solidified Coleman’s reputation as a revolutionary figure in the jazz world.

The album features Coleman on the alto saxophone, along with his classic quartet: Don Cherry on pocket trumpet, Charlie Haden on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums. Together, they craft a sound that breaks away from traditional jazz structures, emphasizing emotion and expression over predetermined chord changes and rhythms.

“Change of the Century” is characterized by its adventurous compositions and the quartet’s remarkable interplay. Coleman’s compositions on the album, including notable tracks like “Ramblin'” and “Una Muy Bonita,” showcase his unique approach to melody and form. These pieces are marked by their unconventional harmonies and rhythmic freedom, offering a fresh perspective on jazz improvisation and composition.

The album not only showcases Coleman’s extraordinary abilities as a saxophonist and composer but also highlights the cohesive and responsive interactions among the quartet members. Each musician contributes to the album’s avant-garde approach, pushing the boundaries of jazz through their exploratory and spontaneous performances.

“Change of the Century” was met with mixed reactions upon its release, with some critics and musicians disoriented by its departure from traditional jazz idioms. However, it has since been recognized as a groundbreaking work that opened new possibilities in jazz, influencing countless musicians and shaping the evolution of the genre. The album’s title itself reflects Coleman’s vision of a new direction in jazz, one that was not just a change in style but a change in the very conception of what jazz could be.