The World Saxophone Quartet always believed in putting on a show, although without watering down its adventurous music. The nine numbers on this set are generally concise (only two songs exceed six minutes) and consist of originals by all four saxophonists: altoist Julius Hemphill (who contributed four of the nine pieces), baritonist Hamiet Bluiett, altoist Oliver Lake and tenor saxophonist David Murray. Sometimes quite rhythmic (and almost danceable) despite not having a rhythm section, the WSQ used melodies and rhythm for their own purposes, creating unpredictable music that always holds one's attention. This release is a good example of their talents. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
1. Revue (Julius Hemphill)
2. Affairs Of The Heart (Julius Hemphill)
3. Slide (Julius Hemphill)
4. Little Samba (Julius Hemphill)
5. I Heard That (Hamiet Bluiett)
6. Hymn For The Old Year (Oliver Lake)
7. Ming (David Murray)
8. David's Tune (David Murray)
9. Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church (Hamiet Bluiett)
OLIVER LAKE flute, soprano, alto & tenor saxophones
JULIUS HEMPHILL flute, soprano & alto saxophones
HAMIET BLUIETT alto clarinet, baritone saxophone
DAVID MURRAY bass clarinet, tenor saxophone
Recorded 14 October 1980 at Georges Pompidou Center, Paris
Black Saint 120056 - 2
Tracks
1. Revue (Julius Hemphill)
2. Affairs Of The Heart (Julius Hemphill)
3. Slide (Julius Hemphill)
4. Little Samba (Julius Hemphill)
5. I Heard That (Hamiet Bluiett)
6. Hymn For The Old Year (Oliver Lake)
7. Ming (David Murray)
8. David's Tune (David Murray)
9. Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church (Hamiet Bluiett)
OLIVER LAKE flute, soprano, alto & tenor saxophones
JULIUS HEMPHILL flute, soprano & alto saxophones
HAMIET BLUIETT alto clarinet, baritone saxophone
DAVID MURRAY bass clarinet, tenor saxophone
Recorded 14 October 1980 at Georges Pompidou Center, Paris
Black Saint 120056 - 2