Steve Lacy – The Classic Albums (8 Original Albums On 4 CDS)

Steve Lacy – born Steven Norman Lackritz – was an American jazz saxophonist and composer, recognised as one of the important players and masters of the soprano saxophone. Born 23rd July 1934 in New York City, Lacy was the first avant-garde jazz musician to specialise in the soprano saxophone, an instrument that had become almost completely neglected during the Bop era. Through its flexibility, richness of tone and swing, he gave the instrument a new lease of life and even inspired John Coltrane to start playing it.

This 4CD collection serves as an ode to Steve Lacey’s finest early works, charting his development from early homages to Monk and Taylor to his pivotal albums in the free jazz movement. A true pioneer and visionary, this new set serves to highlight the great man’s importance, acting as an ideal starting point for those unacquainted or a welcome reminder to those already versed.