Emphasis & Flight, 1961

Experience the raw, unfiltered genius of Jimmy Giuffre with "Emphasis & Flight, 1961," a captivating live album that captures the legendary clarinetist's performances in Stuttgart and Bremen, Germany. Recorded in November 1961, this double-disc set features Jimmy Giuffre alongside his trusted trio members, pianist Paul Bley and bassist Steve Swallow, delivering a powerful blend of cool and free jazz that showcases their exceptional musicianship and improvisational skills.

The album opens with a series of tracks from the Stuttgart concert, including the energetic "Whirrrr" and the intricate "Emphasis," providing a thrilling introduction to the trio's unique sound. The Stuttgart set also features the hauntingly beautiful "Stretching Out - Suite for Germany" and the playful "Carla," demonstrating the group's versatility and range. The Bremen concert, featured on the second disc, offers a different perspective with tracks like the mesmerizing "Call of the Centaur" and the introspective "Goodbye," culminating in the exhilarating "Flight."

"Emphasis & Flight, 1961" is a testament to Jimmy Giuffre's innovative approach to jazz, pushing the boundaries of the genre with his distinctive clarinet playing and thoughtful compositions. The album's 18 tracks, spanning nearly two hours, offer an immersive journey through the world of jazz, from the cool and laid-back to the free and avant-garde. This historic live recording is a rare opportunity to witness the magic of Jimmy Giuffre and his trio in action, performing some of their most iconic pieces.