The Illinois Concert cover

The Illinois Concert

Eric Dolphy · 1999

69 min · 7 tracks · free jazz · hard bop · avant-garde jazz

A swirling tapestry of improvisation, where Dolphy’s innovative woodwinds intertwine with a vibrant ensemble's rhythmic pulse.

The Illinois Concert is an album by Eric Dolphy, released in 1999. A swirling tapestry of improvisation, where Dolphy’s innovative woodwinds intertwine with a vibrant ensemble's rhythmic pulse. 'The Illinois Concert' is significant as it represents one of the last documented performances of Dolphy's career, featuring classic compositions that are essential to the jazz canon. The album received positive critical reception and has been noted for its historical importance in preserving Dolphy's innovative sound and approach to performance. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does The Illinois Concert sound like?

A swirling tapestry of improvisation, where Dolphy’s innovative woodwinds intertwine with a vibrant ensemble's rhythmic pulse. Rooted in free jazz and hard bop.

What makes The Illinois Concert by Eric Dolphy notable?

'The Illinois Concert' is significant as it represents one of the last documented performances of Dolphy's career, featuring classic compositions that are essential to the jazz canon. The album received positive critical reception and has been noted for its historical importance in preserving Dolphy's innovative sound and approach to performance. Released in 1999, 'The Illinois Concert' captures Eric Dolphy's posthumous contributions to avant-garde jazz. This album showcases performances from 1963, highlighting his pioneering style just before his untimely death in 1964. By this time, Dolphy had already established himself as a key figure in the jazz avant-garde with works like 'Out to Lunch!' released earlier in 1964.

How many songs are on The Illinois Concert?

The Illinois Concert has 7 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Tracklist

7 tracks·69:14

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

  • 1 Softly as in a Morning Sunrise Standout 20:19
  • 2 Something Sweet, Something Tender 1:29
  • 3 God Bless the Child Standout 8:46
  • 4 South Street Exit 7:29
  • 5 Iron Man Standout 11:00
  • 6 Red Planet 12:29
  • 7 G.W. 7:41

Release Date

January 1, 1999

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

69 min 14 sec