Used vintage LP AIR: Air Lore. In Mint/Mint condition. Arista/Novus Records

$

30

AIR: Air Lore. Used vintage LP in Mint/Mint condition. Arista/Novus Records LP Catalog # AN 3014; 1979

Condition: Vinyl and packaging have no real flaws. I have the record in a paper sleeve with poly lining, likely a replacement I made at some point for an original standard paper sleeve.

Behind the Music: AIR was a remarkable trio that put out a lot of notes per minute, sometimes making it hard to believe there were but three musicians in the recording studio. At time of this recording (I’m not sure if lineup changed over the years), they were Henry Threadgill on reeds and flute; the remarkable Fred Hopkins on acoustic bass, a fellow who deserved much more respect than he likely got; and Steve McCall on drums and percussion. They dedicated this album to the singer Eddie Jefferson, who had been shot dead on a street in Detroit not long before this session. A very modern but respectful treatment is given two Scott Joplin compositions: “The Ragtime Dance” and “Weeping Willow Rag”; as well, two by ‘Jelly Roll’ Morton: “Buddy Bolden’s Blues” and “King Porter Stomp.” The album is completed by Threadgill’s “Paille Street.” The notes on back of LP jacket by producer Michael Cuscuna begin: “AIR is a collective in every sense with each instrument having an equal voice and an equal effect in shaping the music.” Amen to that. Here is a look back at the roots of Jazz thru a very modern prism.

• About the seller: I am downsizing my personal belongings, and you can benefit. Unless otherwise indicated, all my records have been owned by me alone and treated with loving care. No scratches or gouges. I have been a Jazz radio broadcaster for 30+ years, but my musical tastes are wide-ranging. You will see this as my listed offerings grow. New items added weekly, check back often!

PLEASE NOTE: I will not sell anything for less than $9.99, as it’s not worth packaging the item up and taking it to the Post Office. Sure, you can buy an LP for 50 cents or less at a yard sale, but will it have been cared for like mine? Not likely.

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