"The Shape of Jazz to Come" is a groundbreaking album by Ornette Coleman, released in 1959. It is considered a pivotal work in the development of free jazz, a genre that emphasizes improvisation and individual expression over traditional harmonic structures. The album features a quartet with Don Cherry on trumpet, Charlie Haden on bass, and Billy Higgins on drums, showcasing Coleman's innovative approach to melody and rhythm.
The album's tracks, such as "Lonely Woman" and "Congeniality," challenge conventional jazz forms and invite listeners to experience music in a new way. Its influence extends beyond jazz, impacting various genres and inspiring countless musicians, making it a landmark recording in the history of modern music.