New Grass

Appearing for the first time on CD in 2005, NEW GRASS is a clear appeal by Albert Ayler for greater commercial accessibility. The album finds him riding familiar R&B grooves, using soulful lead and backup vocals, and in general employing a cleaner, less frenetic sound. Fans of the saxophonist's more radical albums may be taken aback here, but Ayler's yearning, exploratory sax lines are still highly energized (especially on the opening cut), and NEW GRASS proves a good place for listeners who are new to free jazz to familiarize themselves with Ayler's unique style.