Free Lancing
James Blood Ulmer · 1981
47 min · 10 tracks · blues
A vibrant fusion of blues and jazz, intertwining intricate guitar work with soulful rhythms and evocative storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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Timeless — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its fluid guitar lines and rhythmic complexity, embodying Ulmer's signature style.
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Pleasure Control — This track showcases Ulmer's ability to meld catchy hooks with intricate musical dialogue, highlighting his distinctive guitar techniques.
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Stand Up to Yourself — With its powerful lyrical message and compelling groove, this song exemplifies Ulmer’s knack for blending social commentary with musical expression.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- raw energy in every track
- complex rhythms for attentive listeners
- for late-night introspection
- engaging grooves encourage movement
- playful exploration of sound
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Upon the release of 'Free Lancing' in 1981, James Blood Ulmer was transitioning from his early career as a sideman to a prominent solo artist. This album followed his critically acclaimed debut, 'Tales of Captain Black', and marked a significant step in establishing his unique voice within the jazz fusion genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ornette Coleman· Sonny Sharrock· Albert Ayler
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Timeless 4:24
- 2 Pleasure Control 5:03
- 3 Night Lover 5:26
- 4 Where Did All the Girls Come From? 4:42
- 5 High Time 4:04
- 6 Hijack 4:44
- 7 Free Lancing 4:40
- 8 Stand Up to Yourself 3:47
- 9 Rush Hour 5:35
- 10 Happy Time 5:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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