My Name is Albert Ayler

Seven years in the making, Director Kasper Collin’s astounding documentary shares the story of prophetic free jazz saxophonist, Albert Ayler. Ayler always said that “if people don’t like it now, they will,” which has proven more than accurate, as he is now widely seen as one of the most important innovators. In 1962 he recorded his first album in Sweden. Eight years later he was found dead at 34, in New York’s East River. Tracing his journey from Cleveland to Sweden and ultimately to New York, this documentary uses newly discovered audio and film recordings of Ayler and interviews with his family, friends, and fellow musicians. Join Kasper Collin in person for a post-screening Q&A. This program is made possible, in part, through the generosity of the Consulate General of Sweden in Los Angeles.