Special Edition has long been the best vehicle for Jack DeJohnette’s drumming, occasional keyboard work and writing. The 1980 version of this quartet featured Chico Freeman on tenor and bass clarinet, John Purcell’s work on baritone and alto, and bassist Peter Warren. The wide-ranging music on this fine set ranges from African rhythms and colors reminiscent of Duke Ellington to some boppish moments and a bit of light funk. Although not the most powerful version of Special Edition, this set is recommended. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
01. Tin Can Alley (Jack DeJohnette)
02. Pastels Rhapsody (Jack DeJohnette)
03. Riff Raff (Peter Warren)
04. The Gri Gri Man (Jack DeJohnette)
05. I Know (jack DeJohnette)
JACK DeJOHNETTE drums, organ, congas, timpani
CHICO FREEMAN tenor saxophone, flute, bass clarinet
JOHN PURCELL baritone saxophone, flute, alto saxophone
PETER WARREN bass
Recorded love at Tonstudio Bauer, Ludwigsburg, September 1980
ECM 1189 517 754 - 2