Albert Ayler - Nuits De La Fondation Maeght Volume 2 (1970 French Shandar Gatefold LP)

Vinyl: NM
Sleeve: EX

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Albert Ayler - Nuits De La Fondation Maeght Volume 2 Vinyl LP - 1970 French Shandar Stereo/Mono Gatefold

Albert Ayler's final documented performance, recorded live on 24 July 1970 at the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, France, captures the saxophonist's late-period approach emphasising spiritual themes and vocal elements. Performed with his partner Mary Maria on vocals and soprano saxophone, pianist Call Cobbs, bassist Steve Tintweiss, and drummer Allen Blairman, the four extended compositions represent Ayler's evolving vision incorporating R&B influences, vocal chanting, and gospel-inspired melodies alongside his characteristic free jazz explorations. Released in 1970 on the French Shandar label (distributed by RCA) in glossy gatefold sleeve, this recording documents Ayler just months before his tragic death in November 1970.

The programme includes Ayler's late-period compositions that divided audiences and critics: "Truth Is Marching In" opens with march-like themes before dissolving into collective improvisation, while "Music Is The Healing Force Of The Universe" (which would become the title of his final studio album) demonstrates his increasing focus on music's spiritual and healing properties. Mary Maria's vocals and soprano saxophone add a dimension absent from Ayler's earlier work, her chanting and singing reflecting Ayler's belief that music should communicate directly and emotionally rather than through purely instrumental abstraction.

This live recording captures both the power and the controversy of Ayler's final direction. His incorporation of R&B elements, simpler melodies, and vocal features alienated some free jazz purists who preferred his earlier ESP-Disk recordings, yet these late works represent Ayler's sincere exploration of music's spiritual and communal functions. The Saint-Paul de Vence performance preserves his vision in its final form. Released on Shandar in glossy gatefold sleeve with stereo/mono compatibility and distributed by RCA, this French pressing documents a historic final performance.