Sam Rivers Broadcast and Live Show

New Yorkers: Prepare for a healthy dose of Sam Rivers. Beginning on May 18 at noon, Columbia University’s WKCR station 89.9 FM will kick of a 177-hour continuous broadcast of Rivers’ music. The event will culminate with Rivers performing in a special one-night only concert at Columbia’s Miller Theatre on May 25.

Longtime collaborators Dave Holland (bass) and Barry Altschul (drums) will join the renowned jazz multi-instrumentalist and composer, reuniting the trio. Together, the three musicians gigged extensively throughout the 1970s, appearing on a number of studio recordings as well.

Earlier in his career, Rivers enjoyed a four-album stint at Blue Note Records, where he played alongside famed sidemen such as Jaki Byard and Herbie Hancock. Rivers also appeared on Blue Note albums from Andrew Hill, Tony Williams and fusion pioneer Larry Young.

Critics and fans alike hold Rivers’ first Blue Note album, Fuchsia Swing Song, in high regards as one of the great jazz recordings.

For all the details on Rivers’ May 25 performance (including ticketing information) and the WKCR round-the-clock broadcast, visit the official WKCR Web site.

Originally Published May 15, 2007