The World Saxophone Quartet's first recording in four years found the group's power and adventurous nature unchanged. In existence on a part-time basis for eight years at this point, the band still sounded quite unique, making avant-garde explorations almost seem accessible at times and playing quite rhythmically in places even without the presence of a rhythm section. Altoists Julius Hemphill and Oliver Lake, tenor saxophonist David Murray and baritonist Hamiet Bluiett (all of whom double on other reeds) were individually quite innovative, but they were also able to blend together to form an unusual group sound. Of their six originals, it is as usual the three Hemphill contributions that are most memorable. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
1. One/Waltz/Time (Julius Hemphill)
2. Great Peace (David Murray)
3. Kinda' Up (Oliver Lake)
4. Paper Works (Hammier Bluiett)
5. Open Air (For Tommy) (Julius Hemphill)
6. Georgia Blue (Julius Hemphill)
HAMIET BLUIETT baritone saxophone, alto clarinet
JULIUS HEMPHILL alto and soprano saxophone
OLIVER LAKE alto and soprano saxophone
DAVID MURRAY tenor saxophone, bass clarinet
Recorded Live on December 6-7, 1985 at Brooklyn Academy of Music, Brooklyn, New York
Black Saint - BSR 0096 CD Italy