By disregarding traditional rules of rhythm, harmony and melody, free jazz artists have opened themselves to criticism from more traditional thinkers. Cacophonous at times, free jazz has other imports besides its inherent sound. The influence of free jazz on more well-known artists like John Coltrane is formative to the history of jazz. Some players came to free jazz with an exuberant innocence--such as Ornette Coleman--and others used years of training and study to break down fundamental rules of jazz with raw emotion and blistering technique--like pianist Cecil Taylor. Either way, the door to new sounds is cracked open wide.

Notable Artists: Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, The Art Ensemble of Chicago, Albert Ayler