Live on the Riviera

by Albert Ayler

Overview

This Albert Ayler concert performance was previously unreleased when the revived ESP label put it out in 2005. Performed a few days before Ayler's final recordings, it features the avant-garde innovator romping with bassist Steve Tintweiss and drummer Allen Blairman in a quartet augmented by singer Mary Maria. Unfortunately, Maria's contributions lower the quality of the performances a bit for her singing on half the numbers and chanting on "Music Is the Healing Force of the Universe" is an acquired taste and slightly inhibits the other musicians, taking up valuable space. She also plays soprano on one number. Ayler himself is in excellent form throughout, best on the playful "Birth of Mirth" and his theme song, "Ghosts." Bassist Steve Tintweiss and drummer Allen Blairman work well with Ayler, making one regret that this group did not last longer and record a full set as a trio. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	03/15/2005
Label:	Esp-Disk
UPC:	0825481040013
Rank:	109612

Tracks

1. Music Is the Healing Force of the Universe
2. Birth of Mirth
3. Masonic Inborn
4. Oh! Love of Life
5. Island Harvest
6. Heart Love
7. Ghosts

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Albert Ayler   Primary Artist,Vocals,Musette,Sax (Tenor),Sax (Soprano)
Mary Maria   Sax (Soprano),Vocals
Steve Tintweiss   Double Bass
Allen Blairman   Drums
Mary Maria Parks   Sax (Soprano),Vocals

Technical Credits

Mary Maria Parks   Composer
Raymond Ross   Photography
Albert Ayler   Composer