EIGHT FURTHER COMPLETE ALBUMS FROM WALDRON S CLASSIC ERA Endlessly influential on the ongoing genre of free jazz and on jazz piano, Malcolm Earl Mal Waldron was famed for, among his numerous talents not least his pioneering and unique playing style, his extensive recording output, featuring as he did on more than 170 albums as either bandleader or sideman. Respected jazz critic Alyn Shipton dubbed Waldron one of the most sublime accompanists in jazz, while the musician himself said 'it's part of my personality to be very economical with what I have and to use it in all variations before I move to the next set of notes' Having been a heavy smoker his entire life, Waldron was diagnosed with cancer in 2002 and, just two weeks after his final concert in Lille, he passed away aged 77 on 2nd December that year. Mal Waldron s influence on jazz pianists throughout the second half of the 20th century and beyond has been nothing short of profound and enduring, and he informed and inspired the jazz community and its adherents throughout his career, and has continued to do so since his death. This four disc boxed set, featuring some of Mal Waldron s finest compositions and recordings across more than five hours of music, captures perfectly the talent and finesse of this remarkable musician. With artistry and writing abilities in abundance, this collection will prove an essential addition to the libraries of those interested in the foundations and roots of modern jazz, or those who simply love the music of the true jazz masters.