It had been preceded by ECM duo albums with Barre Phillips and with Derek Bailey as well as the co-operative band Circle’s great Paris Concert, but Conference of the Birds, recorded in 1972, was Dave Holland’s first album as a full-fledged leader. It is re-issued on 180g vinyl complete with a free download code.

An album of driving, progressive jazz it is also of historical significance as the only occasion when Sam Rivers and Anthony Braxton, two of the music’s most strikingly original saxophonists, recorded together. Inside Dave’s compositions they could meet – if briefly - and share ideas. This summit meeting received raves from the press.

“If you’ve found the new music lacking in swing, cohesion and variety, get to this album,” insisted DownBeat in a five-star review. “It’s Holland’s date but each man contributes equally. The six Holland tunes offer great improvisational frameworks, and his bass playing, both arco and pizzicato, couldn’t be better… Don’t miss this one.”

Tracks:
Side A
1. Four Winds
2. Q & A
3. Conference of the Birds
Side B
1. Interception
2. How Here (Nowhere)
3. See-Saw