Mal Waldron Trio
Free at Last
ECM Records (Germany) 1970
ECM 1001 ST (LP) 2nd. pressing. coated sleeve.
sleeve : EX(some of the laminate is floating, light color-faded.)
media : EX/EX(some slightly noises.)
The trio album by American pianist Mal Waldron, released in 1970 as the first entry in ECM's landmark catalog, carries a profoundly meaningful title. True to its name, the album challenges conventional definitions of free jazz. The deep black groove of track B1, brimming with black spirit, speaks volumes. Interestingly, Waldron also created the astonishing psychedelic jazz album that became the first release in ECM’s sub-label JAPO catalog. Considering ECM's subsequent trajectory and ethos, this album is undeniably fitting as the label's debut release.
This is the original German 2nd pressing with a standard outer sleeve, spine text on side, and "MADE IN W. GERMANY" printed on the back of cover. The matrix appears identical to the 1st pressing, suggesting the same master plate was used.
A1: Rat Now
B1: Rock My Soul