Each of these ten tracks feature Steve Lacy in duo performances. Compiled by the soprano saxophonist, and not released until 1997, there are highlights galore throughout, making this an essential recording for any admirer of Lacy's work. Each tune (most of which were composed by Lacy) features him with a different partner, including trombonists Roswell Rudd and George Lewis; percussionists Muhammad Ali and Masahiko Togashi; pianists Ulrich Gumpert, Bobby Few, and Mal Waldron; guitarist Derek Bailey; saxophonist Steve Potts; and vocalist Irene Aebi. While the sound is slightly subpar, the music is uniformly superb and showcases Lacy in some of his most creative and exuberant collaborations. While the material is often familiar, the results surprise and even startle, though in Lacy's inimitably tasteful way. - Steve Loewy
Tracks
01. Haze (Masahiko Togashi)
02. Free Point (Steve Lacy)
03. Epistrophy (Kenny Clarke/Thelonious Monk)
04. Train Going By (Steve Lacy)
05. Pannonica (Thelonious Monk)
06. The Rent (Steve Lacy)
07. Untitled (Derek Bailey/Steve Lacy)
08. The Whammies (Steve Lacy)
09. The Crust (Steve Lacy)
10. Cliches (Steve Lacy)
STEVE LACY Soprano saxophone
MASAHIKO TOGASHI percussion
STEVE POTTS alto saxophone, soprano saxophone
MAL WALDRON piano
IRÈNE AEBI voice
ROSWELL RUDD trombone
BOBBY FEW piano
DEREK BAILEY guitar
GEORGE LEWIS trombone
ULLI GUMPERT piano
MUHAMMAD ALI drums
Recorded between 1982 and 1993 in Japan, London, Canada, Turkey, France and Germany
Musica Jazz - FF 1001 Italy