Eric Dolphy - Last Date (1964)

Saxophone.org:
Eric Dolphy was one of the greatest innovators the jazz world has ever seen. Last Date was indeed Dolphy's last recording session. Just a short while later, Eric died from insulin shock from his long-untreated diabetes illness. Always short on money, Dolphy couldn't afford to eat right (except for occasional forays with swordfish), and eventually it caught up with him.

Last Date is not one of Dolphy's most famous records. It is, however, one of the most important for it showcases Dolphy at his most mature level. The songs on the CD were recorded live on June 2, 1964 in Hilversum, Holland. Dolphy was a guest artist for a popular Dutch radio show and was recording with Holland's most luminary jazz artists.

During the preparation for the session, there was a lot of tension between the pianist, Misja Mengelberg and Dolphy. Mengelberg didn't like Dolphy's playing or compositions really, and Dolphy didn't particularly like Mengelberg's playing either! Even though there was this tension (and it sometimes turned comical due to Dolphy's friendly nature) the session was a stellar showcase for Dolphy's playing.

Allmusic.com (5 star rating):
Although one slightly later session has since been discovered, Last Date remains a near-classic with the great Eric Dolphy (heard on alto, flute, and bass clarinet) backed by a top European rhythm section — pianist Misha Mengelberg, bassist Jacques Schols, and drummer Han Bennink — performing exciting versions of "Epistrophy," "You Don't Know What Love Is," and four of his originals. The innovative music points out what a giant loss Dolphy's premature death was; he passed away just 27 days after this memorable performance.

Personnel:
Eric Dolphy (alto saxophone, flute, bass clarinet)
Misja Mengelberg (piano)
Jacques Shols (bass)
Han Bennink (drums)

Recording Date:June 2, 1964 Hilversum, Holland

TrackListing:
1. Epistrophy (11:13)
2. South Street Exit (7:14)
3. The Madrig Speaks, The Panther Walks (4:47)
4. Hypochristmutreefuzz (5:27)
5. You Don't Know What Love Is (11:23)
6. Miss Ann (5:35)