The Ornette Coleman Trio – At the “Golden Circle” Stockholm Volume One G+/VG

At The “Golden Circle” Stockholm – Volume One captures the Ornette Coleman Trio in a thrilling live performance. The album kicks off with “Faces and Places,” setting the stage for their signature brand of free jazz. Coleman’s alto saxophone takes center stage, weaving intricate melodies that defy traditional harmonies. The rhythm section, featuring David Izenzon on bass and Charles Moffett on drums, provides a loose and dynamic foundation, constantly pushing and pulling the music forward.

The energy continues to build throughout the album. “European Echoes” explores a more introspective sound, with Coleman’s saxophone taking on a mournful quality. However, the tension never fully releases, and the piece eventually explodes into a flurry of improvisation. The latter half of the album features “Dee Dee” and “Dawn,” two tracks that showcase the trio’s telepathic interplay. These compositions are less structured, relying heavily on spontaneous invention and group communication.