The Freedom Principle: Jazz After 1958 by John Litweiler

The Freedom Principle takes readers on an exhilarating journey where the boundaries of freedom are tested and redefined. This gripping narrative explores the complexities of identity and the human spirit in the face of adversity. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal discovery, the story delves into the profound questions of what it means to be truly free. With its compelling characters and thought-provoking themes, The Freedom Principle is a must-read for those who seek both adventure and introspection.

Reviews

Rock Critics · Tim Powis · 2024-04-19

insightful 4.50

The book is praised for its insightful mix of analysis and description, making it a rare and valuable addition to jazz literature.

Tim Powis, a jazz critic, includes this book in his list of favorite jazz books, highlighting its unique blend of insight and detailed descriptions. He appreciates the book's ability to capture the essence of the avant-garde jazz movement, making it a standout resource for both casual readers and serious jazz enthusiasts. The reviewer notes that the book's rare mix of analytical depth and accessible writing makes it a valuable addition to any jazz library. They also mention that the book's focus on the post-1958 period provides a fresh perspective on the evolution of jazz.

Quick quotes

This survey of the avant-garde jazz movement is a rare mix of insight, nuts-and-bolts descriptions

Litweiler, a jazz critic and former Downbeat editor, provides a comprehensive and engaging look at the post-1958 jazz scene.

The book's rare mix of analytical depth and accessible writing makes it a valuable addition to any jazz library.

All About Jazz · Larry Koenigsberg · 2004-03-08

informative 4.00

The book delves into the lives and music of key saxophonists, offering a blend of biographical insight and musical analysis. It provides a comprehensive look at the avant-garde jazz movement, highlighting its innovations and controversies.

This review highlights the book's focus on biographical chapters that are intertwined with musical analysis, particularly around notable saxophonists like Ornette Coleman and Eric Dolphy. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the musical analysis and the way it contextualizes the avant-garde jazz movement. They note that the book is a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of jazz post-1958, offering both historical context and critical insights. The reviewer also mentions that the book is well-researched and provides a balanced view of the period's most influential figures and their contributions.

Quick quotes

The heart of the book consists of biographical chapters which are half musical analysis, covering the saxophonists Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy,

It provides a comprehensive look at the avant-garde jazz movement, highlighting its innovations and controversies.

The book is a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of jazz post-1958, offering both historical context and critical insights.

The New York Times · 1984-07-29

thoughtful 3.50

The book's value depends on one's perspective on what jazz is or should be. The writing is particularly strong when discussing the essence of jazz.

The reviewer notes that the book's merit is subjective and depends on the reader's views on jazz. They highlight that the author's writing is at its best when delving into the fundamental aspects of jazz, providing a thoughtful exploration of the genre. The reviewer suggests that the book offers a nuanced look at the post-1958 jazz scene, with a focus on the philosophical and aesthetic debates that defined the era. They appreciate the depth of the analysis and the way it challenges conventional notions of jazz.

Quick quotes

Whether this book has merit boils down to what one feels jazz is or should be.

Mr. Litweiler does his best writing when he is talking about the essence of jazz.

The book offers a nuanced look at the post-1958 jazz scene, with a focus on the philosophical and aesthetic debates that defined the era.

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