everybodydigs# is a series of posts about Jazz, Funk, Soul & R’n’b albums released from the 20s to the 90s, you can read a brief description/review and listen to a small preview (when it’s possible). everybodydigs# is like when someone tells you “hey you should listen to this album!” and nothing less, enjoy!

Multi-instrumentalist Sam Rivers is usually identified with jazz’s avant-garde wing, but many of his albums are highly accessible thanks to his use of hard swing and his well-defined themes. Recorded in 1967,Dimensions And Extensions is one of Rivers’s finest albums ever. It features a group of simpatico musicians including trombonist Julian Priester (later to play with Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi band), alto saxophonist James Spaulding, and hard bop (later crossover) expert trumpeter Donald Byrd. While much of this set is cerebral and sometimes challenging, Rivers engages the listener with his fervent soloing on soprano and tenor saxes and flute, as well as with his rhythmic urgency.

Personnel: Sam Rivers (flute, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); James Spaulding (flute, alto saxophone); Donald Byrd (trumpet); Julian Priester (trombone); Cecil McBee (bass instrument); Steve Ellington (drum).

Rappamelo’s favorite track: