Eric Dolphy - Iron Man

EU Import

This is one of two CDs that document the most innovative studio sessions in Eric Dolphy's musical career. Both appear for the first time with their original LP cover artwork and digitally remastered from the original stereo tapes produced by Alan Douglas during the early part of 1963, when Eric Dolphy and Douglas decided to experiment with Eric's original compositions. Two approaches were agreed upon. One was of clear simplicity; Eric on reed instruments and Richard Davis on bass. The other was more involved - a ten piece orchestra of young men who understood and admired Eric's work.

The recording sessions took place late at night in a very relaxed studio for five successive nights. In this environment the playing of Eric Dolphy, Richard Davis and the other musicians was unbelievably inspired. So much was created, individual compositions went from 'almost commercial' to 'very far out.'

Two albums were produced from that beautiful week. The first, called 'Conversations,' was released through FM Records. On this, the second, is incorporated performances that were considered too futuristic to put out at that time.

—Don Heckman (From the original liner notes)

In tribute to Eric Dolphy (1928-1964):
Whatever I'd say would be an understatment. I can only say my life was made much better by knowing Eric. He was one of the the greatest people I've ever known, as a man, a friend, and a musician.

—John Coltrane