This was a first-rate big band/large group session from 1980, with Muhal Richard Abrams' compositions being played by a masterful ensemble which included French horn and tuba in its instrumental mix. There were wonderful solos, dashing arrangements and fiery rhythm support from Thurman Barker on drums, marimba and percussion, with Andrew Cyrille adding additional percussive assistance. The group also featured Baikida Carroll on trumpet and flugelhorn, Wallace McMillan on various reeds, violinist Leroy Jenkins, bassist Brian Smith, Abrams on keyboards, trombonist George Lewis, Bob Stewart on tuba and Vincent Chancey on French horn. They presented adventurous, disciplined, frequently exciting music. - Rovi Staff
Tracks
1. Fafca
2. Balu
3. Malic
4. Mama And Daddy
BAIKIDA CARROLL trumpet, flugelhorn
GEORGE LEWIS trombone
WALLACE McMILLAN alto and tenor saxophones, flute, conga
VINCENT CHANCEY french horn
BOB STEWART tube
LEROY JENKINS violin
MUHAL RICHARD ABRAMS piano, synthesizer
BRIAN SMITH bass
ANDREW CYRILLE percussion
THURMAN BARKER drums, marimba, percussion
All compositions by Muhal Richard Abrams
Black Saint 12004-2 (Italy)