Tenor saxophonist George Adams played with such verve and wit that virtually every solo he played was a delight. Unfortunately, as is the case here, he sometimes participated in contexts that didn't quite match the quality of his performances. Here, he's backed by a decent and sympathetic (if not always inspiring) rhythm section, and some of the tunes -- such as the tear-jerking "Send in the Clowns" -- are near perfect. Yet, one-third of this short recording is filled by a tune called "Funk-A-Roonie-Peacock," which, while a lot of fun, sounds like commercial filler. The saxophonist contributes a lengthy vocal, suitable for the disco but likely to disappoint many of his followers. Elsewhere, there's a sense of spontaneity that borders on informality, but Adams is excellent throughout. - Steve Loewy
Tracks
1. Paradise Space Shuttle
2. Intentions
3. Send in the Clowns
4. Metamorphosis for Mingus
5. City of Peace
6. Funk-A-Roonie-Peacock (Ron Burton)
DON PATE bass
AL FOSTER drums
AZZEDIN WESTON percussion
RON BURTON piano
GEORGE ADAMS tenor saxophone
All compositions by George Adams except (6) by Ron Burton
Recorded at Sound Ideas Studio, New York City, December 21, 1979
Timeless Records - SJP 127