Brown Rice

Where they were

Released in 1975, 'Brown Rice' marked a significant evolution in Don Cherry's career, following his earlier work with avant-garde jazz legends like Ornette Coleman. At this point, Cherry was deeply engaged in global music influences, showcasing a blend of jazz improvisation with Eastern musical traditions.

Why it matters

This album is notable for its avant-garde approach to jazz, melding traditional elements with free improvisation, influencing countless musicians in the jazz and world music scenes. It received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and helped solidify Cherry's position as a vital figure in the fusion of jazz with global music forms.

Essential tracks

• "Brown Rice" — 'Brown Rice' serves as the titular track, encapsulating the album's thematic essence while featuring Cherry’s unique trumpet style interwoven with rich percussion.
• "Malkauns" — This expansive piece showcases Cherry's ability to blend complex rhythms with meditative melodies, reflecting his deep connection to Indian classical music.
• "Chenrezig" — 'Chenrezig' stands out for its spiritual undertones and collective improvisation, embodying Cherry’s exploration of cultural synthesis and transcendence.