Dog Years in the Fourth Ring cover

Released 30 years ago

Dog Years in the Fourth Ring

Rahsaan Roland Kirk · 1996

95 min · 19 tracks · jazz

An expansive exploration of jazz, weaving intricate melodies with vibrant improvisation and a unique blend of rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

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    I Remember Clifford — This track serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late trumpeter Clifford Brown, capturing both nostalgia and the spirit of innovation that defined Kirk's artistry.
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    Freddie Freeloader — Kirk's rendition of this classic features layered textures and improvisational flair that highlight his unique take on established jazz standards.
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    Giant Steps — Kirk's interpretation stands out due to its intricate harmonic structure and inventive phrasing, showcasing his technical prowess and deep understanding of jazz language.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant improvisations that inspire exploration
  • short bursts of playful energy
  • cathartic moments of soulful expression
  • patient grooves inviting deep listening
  • interwoven textures that reward focus

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer straightforward, single-focused albums

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1996, Dog Years in the Fourth Ring marked Rahsaan Roland Kirk’s final studio album before his passing. At this stage in his career, Kirk was revered for his innovative approach to jazz, having already made significant contributions since the 1960s. This album showcases his mastery of multiple instruments and his ability to fuse different jazz styles.
Stylistic neighbors
Charles Mingus· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Box Tops and Whistlin’ Rings 0:19
  • 2 Domino 5:02
  • 3 Blues for Alice 6:18
  • 4 I Remember Clifford 3:37
  • 5 Freddie Freeloader 5:31
  • 6 Lester Leaps In 5:02
  • 7 Sister Sadie 6:02
  • 8 One Mind/Seasons 4:42
  • 9 I Say a Little Prayer 12:58

Disc 2

  • 1 Jammin’ With a Wolf 0:25
  • 2 Three for the Festival (excerpt) 3:51
  • 3 Untitled Blues 7:23
  • 4 Passion (Dance) 8:09
  • 5 Petite Fleur (Little Flower) 7:34
  • 6 Giant Steps 4:13
  • 7 Misterioso/Blue Monk (excerpt) 1:03
  • 8 Rahsaantalk 0:25
  • 9 Multi-Horn Medley: Satin Doll/Lover 6:19
  • 10 Blacknuss 6:21

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata