Eric Dolphy was one of the greatest innovators the jazz world has ever seen. Last Date was indeed Dolphy's last recording session. Just a short while later, Eric died from insulin shock from his long-untreated diabetes illness. Always short on money, Dolphy couldn't afford to eat right (except for occasional forays with swordfish), and eventually it caught up with him.
Last Date is not one of Dolphy's most famous records. It is, however, one of the most important for it showcases Dolphy at his most mature level. The songs on the CD were recorded live on June 2, 1964 in Hilversum, Holland. Dolphy was a guest artist for a popular Dutch radio show and was recording with Holland's most luminary jazz artists.
During the preparation for the session, there was a lot of tension between the pianist, Misja Mengelberg and Dolphy. Mengelberg didn't like Dolphy's playing or compositions really, and Dolphy didn't particularly like Mengelberg's playing either! Even though there was this tension (and it sometimes turned comical due to Dolphy's friendly nature) the session was a stellar showcase for Dolphy's playing.
"South Street Exit" features a great Dolphy flute solo! This piece exemplifies just how virtuostic Dolphy was on his instruments. He flies through the registers of the flute with flawless precision, just as he does on alto and bass clarinet. This piece grooves hard, and features a really tasty piano solo.
Dolphy was a strong lover of nature and his playing was strongly influenced by elements of sound found in the "wild." This piece switches from 4/4 to 6/8 to emulate the pacing of the Panther and the wild call of the Madrig.
"Hypochrismutreefuzz" is by far the best name for a jazz tune ever! This is just a great tune and features a really nice alto solo from Dolphy. Misja really shines on this piece, and you can tell everyone was having a great time.
"You Don't Know What Love Is" is a lovely ballad featuring Eric on flute. This is a great tune to transcribe to hear what Dolphy was up to in this stage of his playing career. I would recommend that all doublers particularly check out Dolphy's flute tone.
"Miss Ann" is a great chart. I think there is a transcription of it on the Eric Dolphy Page. This is also a great alto piece. This another piece that really shows what Dolphy was on to just before he died.
Eric Dolphy