MY NAME IS ALBERT AYLER

Year: 2005
UK: ICA Cinema
Director: Kasper Collin
Country: Sweden
Language: English / Swedish (part English subtitles)
UK: 79 mins
UK Release Date: 9 February 2007 (Limited Release - London, ICA)
UK Distributor

Synopsis

The prophetic free jazz saxophonist Albert Ayler, who today is seen as one of the most important innovators in jazz, was obsessed with his radical music and by the thought that people one day would understand it, as he said in his own words "If people don't like it now, they will." In 1962 he recorded his first album in Sweden. Eight years later he was found dead in New York's East River, aged 34. This new documentary follows the trail of Albert from his native town of Cleveland by way of Sweden to New York, meeting family, friends and colleagues who help tell the story of his life and music. Albert himself guides us with his voice and music. Seven years in the making, the film includes newly discovered footage of Ayler and his band.

This detailed documentary portrait of the jazz legend is essential viewing for fans and an effective, accessible primer for newcomers to the musician's life and work. Supported by The Wire Magazine.