Tribute to Albert Ayler Live at the Dynamo cover

Tribute to Albert Ayler Live at the Dynamo

Roy Campbell, Jr. · 2009

74 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant celebration of free jazz, blending spiritual intensity with improvisational freedom and communal energy.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Music Is the Healing Force of the Universe — This opening track sets a powerful tone for the album, reflecting themes of healing and spirituality that are central to Ayler's work. Its energetic improvisation showcases Campbell's ability to channel emotional depth through his trumpet.
  • →
    Obama Victory Shoutout & Truth Is Marching In — This track not only reflects cultural and political optimism during Obama's election but also intertwines social commentary with musical innovation, embodying the spirit of both celebration and reflection.
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    DC & Vibrations — With its extended length, this piece allows for deep exploration of collective improvisation, highlighting the synergy between musicians. It captures a quintessential moment in live jazz where spontaneity reigns supreme.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
66 /100
Alpine
Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisational skills and a unique sound while honoring Ayler's legacy.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended improvisations, with each track averaging over eight minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
  • The ensemble frequently shifts dynamics and textures, moving from quiet, introspective passages to intense, cacophonous climaxes.
  • Each musician takes turns in the spotlight, with solos that often respond to one another, creating a conversational flow throughout the performance.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Music Is the Healing Force of the Universe 6:30
  • 2 Muntu 15:18
  • 3 Obama Victory Shoutout & Truth Is Marching In 13:49
  • 4 DC & Vibrations 16:51
  • 5 Prophet John 15:05
  • 6 Universal Indians 6:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata