description Ed Blackwell Overview
Ed Blackwell was an American jazz drummer whose New Orleans-rooted style powered Ornette Coleman's groups and the band Old and New Dreams.
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What is Ed Blackwell's connection to Ornette Coleman?
Ed Blackwell became closely associated with Ornette Coleman around 1960, including work connected to Coleman's New York period. He replaced Billy Higgins in Coleman's group during a Five Spot engagement.
Why does Ed Blackwell's drumming sound different from other free jazz drummers?
Blackwell brought New Orleans parade rhythm, African rhythmic ideas, and bebop agility into free jazz. That combination made him sound more dancing and melodic than many purely explosive avant-garde drummers.
What was Old and New Dreams?
Old and New Dreams was a quartet active from the 1970s into the 1980s with Don Cherry, Dewey Redman, Charlie Haden, and Ed Blackwell. All four musicians had deep ties to Ornette Coleman's music.
Did Ed Blackwell work outside Ornette Coleman's circle?
Yes, he recorded and performed with musicians including Don Cherry, Dewey Redman, and other avant-garde jazz figures. He also taught at Wesleyan University, where he influenced later generations of improvisers.
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