George Russell Sextet - Ezz-Thetics (1961)

This is a true classic. Composer/pianist George Russell gathered together a very versatile group of talents (trumpeter Don Ellis, trombonist Dave Baker, Eric Dolphy on alto and bass clarinet, bassist Steve Swallow, and drummer Joe Hunt) to explore three of his originals, "'Round Midnight" (which is given an extraordinary treatment by Dolphy), Miles Davis' "Nardis," and David Baker's "Honesty." The music is post-bop and although using ideas from avant-garde jazz, it does not fall into any simple category. The improvising is at a very high level and the frameworks (which include free and stop-time sections) really inspire the players. Highly recommended.

by Scott Yanow in All Music Guide

Styles:
Post-Bop
Mainstream Jazz

Tracks:
01 - Ezz-thetic (8:57)
02 - Nardisv (4:34)
03 - Lydiot (8:06)
04 - Thoughts (5:26)
05 - Honesty (8:55)
06 - Round Midnight (6:29)

Line-up:
George Russell - piano, arranger
Don Ellis - trumpet
Dave Baker - trombone
Eric Dolphy - alto sax and bass clarinet
Steve Swallow - bass
Joe Hunt - drums