Revisiting the tradition has consciously occupied most black musicians of post-Coltrane era, although whether the practice had ever been dormant is debat able. Certainly during the most harmonically-advanced extensions of bebop the blues still gave impetus to the music. And as for the arhoolie and gospel shout, they were always available for dramatic emphasis when needed.
Since first appearing on record with the String Trio of New York in 1977, Bang reveals such a rich fund of ideas every time he plays the violin that it seems un believable that he once rejected it. It was his realization of what the charenga players did that increased his confidence. "Rhythm", he says, "has always been the reference for me." Not Surprisingly, when he met Dennis Charles, the two established an instant rapport. Together with the other musicians on this recording, they work together often. When Charles was concerned, the violinist relates to the qualities that made Cecil Taylor pick him for a running mate 25 years ago. To the drummer, Bang was a natural "man", he said, "I've never seen anyone fit a violin so well.You was made to play the instrument." - Val Wilmer
Tracks
01. An Addition to Tradition (Billy Bang)
02. A Pebble Is a Small Rock (Billy Bang/Curtis Clark)
03. In a Minute (Billy Bang)
04. A Minute Later (Billy Bang)
05. Invitation (Bronislaw Kaper/Ned Washington)
06. Secret Society (Billy Bang)
07. Lover Man (Jimmy Davis/Roger 'Ram' Ramirez/Jimmy Sherman)
BILLY BANG violin
CHARLES TYLER alto & baritone sax
CURTIS CLARK piano
WILBER MORRIS bass
DENNIS CHARLES drums
Recorded April 13 & 14, 1982 at Barigozzi Studios, Milano, Italy
Soul Note - 121036-2