Ep 9. The Adventure (1956-1960)

In Ken Burns: Jazz season 1 episode 9, titled The Adventure (1956-1960), the focus is on the evolution of jazz during a period of great social change in America. This episode explores the rise of new jazz styles, including hard bop and modal jazz, and how they reflected the spirit of adventure and innovation of the era.

The episode begins with the emergence of hard bop, a style that was born out of the bebop movement of the 1940s. Hard bop emphasized a harder, more rhythmically complex sound, with a greater emphasis on blues and gospel influences. This style was epitomized by musicians like drummer Art Blakey and his band, The Jazz Messengers, who became known for their fiery, high-energy performances.

As the episode progresses, it turns its attention to the development of modal jazz, a style pioneered by trumpeter Miles Davis in his seminal album, Kind of Blue. Modal jazz was based on a minimalist approach to harmony and melody, allowing for greater improvisational freedom and exploration. This style was embraced by a younger generation of musicians, including John Coltrane, who went on to become one of the most influential and innovative saxophonists in jazz history.

In addition to exploring these new styles, The Adventure also examines the social and political context in which they were created. As the civil rights movement gained momentum in the late 1950s and early 1960s, many jazz musicians began to use their music as a tool for social commentary and activism. This is exemplified in the work of saxophonist Sonny Rollins, whose album Freedom Suite was a direct response to the injustices faced by African Americans at the time.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a range of archival footage and photographs, as well as interviews with prominent jazz musicians and scholars. By the end of the hour, viewers will have gained a deeper understanding of the role that jazz played in shaping American culture in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and how its innovations continue to inspire musicians around the world today.

Overall, The Adventure is a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of one of the most dynamic and transformative periods in jazz history. Whether you are a longtime jazz fan or just discovering the genre for the first time, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impression.