Skies of America cover

Skies of America

Ornette Coleman · 1972

41 min · 21 tracks · jazz

A bold amalgamation of jazz improvisation and orchestral textures, reflecting contemporary American themes.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing that evolves
  • dynamic exploration of themes
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • reflective moments for introspection
  • immersive orchestral textures

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer straightforward song structures
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
By 1972, Ornette Coleman had established himself as a leading figure in free jazz, following his influential works such as 'The Shape of Jazz to Come' (1959). 'Skies of America' marks a significant artistic expansion for Coleman, featuring orchestral elements that showcase his innovative approach to composition and performance. This album represented a period of exploration beyond traditional jazz forms and into broader cultural commentary.
Stylistic neighbors
Albert Ayler· John Coltrane· Cecil Taylor

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Skies of America 2:49
  • 2 Native Americans 1:10
  • 3 The Good Life 1:33
  • 4 Birthdays and Funerals 3:13
  • 5 Dreams 0:51
  • 6 Sounds of Sculpture 1:20
  • 7 Holiday for Heroes 1:10
  • 8 All of My Life 3:08
  • 9 Dancers 1:17
  • 10 The Souls Within Woman 0:47
  • 11 The Artist in America 3:54
  • 12 The New Anthem 0:31
  • 13 Place in Space 2:44
  • 14 Foreigner in a Free Land 1:19
  • 15 Silver Screen 1:10
  • 16 Poetry 1:15
  • 17 The Men Who Live in the White House 2:48
  • 18 Love Life 4:34
  • 19 The Military 0:32
  • 20 Jam Session 0:39
  • 21 Sunday in America 4:29

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata