- Dave Holland: Freedom Call
(2026, download / streaming, --, bandcamp)
(2026, 3cd, --, edition records edn1302)
(2026, 6lp, --, edition records)
To mark his 80th birthday, jazz icon Dave Holland has opened his vaults to release "Freedom Call", a spectacular 6-LP / 3-CD box set capturing previously unreleased live recordings from three of his most defining ensembles: the Sextet (Unity), the Quintet (Synergism), and Prism (Freedom). Recorded between 2007 and 2014, this box set is a masterclass in collective improvisation, artistic continuity, and rhythmic complexity.
Dave Holland’s status as an absolute icon of modern jazz is indisputable. For over five decades, the English bassist, composer, and bandleader has carved out a monumental legacy rooted in a robust, virtuosic double bass technique and an uncanny ability to push musical boundaries. His career took off on the highest possible plane when Miles Davis flew him to New York in 1968, leading to Holland’s foundational contributions to jazz-fusion landmarks like "In a Silent Way" and "Bitches Brew". Over the years, Holland has anchored legendary avant-garde and post-bop sessions alongside giants like Chick Corea and Anthony Braxton in the cooperative band Circle, as well as working with Stan Getz, Sam Rivers, Herbie Hancock, and John Surman.
What makes Holland a true icon, however, is that he never became a museum piece. He has constantly evolved by forming forward-thinking ensembles that foster deep musical trust and equal dialogue. "Freedom Call" documents exactly that.
The first part, featuring the Sextet, presents an incredibly tight horn section with alto saxophonist Antonio Hart, trumpeter Alex Sipiagin, and longtime collaborator Robin Eubanks on trombone. Grounded by the late, great pianist Mulgrew Miller and drummer Eric Harland, their performance strikes a perfect balance between intricate, modern post-bop composition and hard-swinging spontaneity.
The second part shifts to his legendary Quintet, a group that defined a generation of modern jazz. With Chris Potter on saxophones, Robin Eubanks on trombone, Steve Nelson weaving textures on vibraphone and marimba, and Nate Smith driving the rhythms, the chemistry is telepathic. Tracks like "Easy Did It" and "Pathways" showcase the quintet’s flawless time-keeping and restless, layered interplay.
The final chapter features Prism, Holland’s heavier, rock-infused quartet with electric guitarist Kevin Eubanks, keyboardist Craig Taborn, and drummer Eric Harland. Embracing a more freewheeling, electric aesthetic that echoes the spontaneity of Sam Rivers' ethos, tracks like 'A New Day' and 'The Empty Chair' stretch out into epic, raucous, and deeply moving conversations. "Freedom Call" is not just a retrospective; it is a vital, living testament to a bandleader who views improvisation as the ultimate form of democratic conversation. For any devotee of modern creative jazz, this beautifully packaged set is an essential addition to the collection.
Highly recommended.
-- info: Danny Mathys
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