Recorded on September 20 - 21, 1978 and December 5, 1977
Like many jazz musicians, Ira Sullivan never received the recognition he deserved. He spent the early part of his career in Chicago and later moved to Florida. His instrumental prowess included both woodwinds (saxophones and flutes) as well as brass (trumpet and fluegelhorn). One could make the argument that no one in jazz history played such as diverse range of instruments with such complete mastery.
With the exception of one track, these two LPs were recorded during one two-day session in September 1978. The band is fantastic. It includes guitarist Joe Dioro, who frequently performed with Sullivan, and the impeccable rhythm team of John Heard and Billy Higgins. Percussionist Kenneth Nash sits in on a few tracks as well.
Neither of these Galaxy LPs have been reissued in digital format.
- Ira Sullivan (A&M Horizon, 1976)
- Ira Sullivan (Flying Fish/Nessa, 1978)
I remember meeting Ira Sullivan after a performance in Miami. Just a small gig in a university auditorium. He certainly did not act like a superstar, which was refreshing to see. I've always admired his skills on both wind and brass instruments and wondered what might have been if he had not been tucked away in the center of Latinx music. Most true jazz artists in Miami are connection to U. of Miami's music school, which boasts a long list of famous grads (e.g., Pat Metheny). Clearly, jazz is still partly a regional experience in the US while it also expands internationally. All valuable influences!
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