Eric Dolphy & Booker Little

The Profile

Eric Dolphy (alto saxophone, flute, bass clarinet) and Booker Little (trumpet) were American jazz innovators who collaborated intensely in 1960–1961, recording Far Cry and performing live in New York. Both died young—Little at 23 from kidney failure and Dolphy in 1964 from complications related to diabetes—leaving a profound, influential legacy in post-bop and avant‑garde jazz.

American jazz duo active 1960–1961; key styles include post-bop and avant-garde jazz. Notable studio collaboration: Far Cry (1960). Live collaborations documented at the Five Spot in 1961. Eric Dolphy played alto saxophone, flute, and bass clarinet; Booker Little played trumpet. Booker Little died at 23 from kidney failure in 1961; Eric Dolphy died in 1964 in Berlin due to complications of undiagnosed diabetes.

A warmly positive take on Far Cry, highlighting Dolphy and Little at the height of their partnership with stellar support from Jaki Byard, Ron Carter, and Roy Haynes. The review contrasts melodic passages with freer explorations, noting Dolphy’s flute and bass clarinet. It underscores the tragedy of both artists’ early deaths and recommends the album as a prime introduction. Mentions standout tracks dedicated to Charlie Parker and the title piece.