Trombonist Albert Mangelsdorff was a major innovator, one of only a few Europeans who has had an influence on jazz instrumentalists worldwide. He refined multiphonics, a technique utilizing vocalizing into the horn to produce chords and overtone effects. Often performing as a soloist, he also played/recorded with Elvin Jones, John Lewis, Wolfgang Dauner, and Lee Konitz. Trilogue, Live in Montreux, and Triple Entente are all played in trio with Albert’s amazing technique and multiphonics in full display.

Live In Montreux

The Atlanta Journal hailed his playing as “unparalleled…a major cultural event”, and Downbeat crowned Albert Mangelsdorff “a true master”. Albert has chosen the perfect partners for musical exploration on this 1980 live recording. Drummer Ronald Shannon Jackson’s work with Ornette Coleman’s Prime Time, Cecil Taylor, and James “Blood” Ulmer place him at the head of the jazz and fusion avant-garde. Bassist J. F. Jenny-Clarke’s work with Gato Barbieri, Don Cherry, and Steve Lacy indicate why he was one of the most important bassists coming out of Europe. Dear Mr. Palmer is a freeform escapade with Albert roaming over the full range of the horn, using multiphonics interspersed with melodic vignettes. Mood Azure starts off with Albert solo as the band joins for some tender, graceful interplay. On Stay On The Carpet drums and bass burn with a modern 6/8 drive. Ripp Off catapults Albert back to the plunger blues of Tricky Sam Nanton with lines reminiscent of Freedom Jazz Dance. It all goes to show that with Mangelsdorff a trio is more than the sum of its parts.