Stylewise, the music on this CD sounds much closer to a mid-'60s Blue Note release than what one might expect from ECM. Although the general sound of the ensembles is light, the music is often filled with inner heat, a little reminiscent of a Wayne Shorter record. Altoist Eric Person and vibraphonist Steve Nelson work well together, bassist Dave Holland takes plenty of solo space, drummer Gene Jackson keeps the momentum flowing and guest vocalist Cassandra Wilson does a fine job on Maya Angelou's poem "Equality." Holland's originals have plenty of variety in moods while close attention is paid to dynamics. A satisfying and thought-provoking session. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
1. The Winding Way (Dave Holland)
2. Lazy Snake (Dave Holland)
3. Claressence (Dave Holland)
4. Equality (Maya Angelou / Dave Holland)
5. Ebb & Flo (Dave Holland)
6. Dream of the Elders (Dave Holland)
7. Secord Thoughts (Dave Holland)
8. Equality (Maya Angelou / Dave Holland)
DAVE HOLLAND double-bass
STEVE NELSON vibraphone, marimba
ERIC PERSON alto and soprano saxophones
CASSANDRA WILSON vocal (8)
GENE JACKSON drums
Recorded march 1995 at Power Station, New York
ECM Records - ECM 1572 ECM Records - 529 084-2