My first LP with Jimmy Lyons. This session was recorded for the Italian Black Saint label in 1985. A lovely avant-garde excursion where the whole band is on top of their game. The total control in this free environment is magical. The musicianship is stupendous. Lyons on alto, Enrico Rava on trumpet/flugelhorn and Karen Borca (Lyons’ wife) on bassoon are absolutely killing it. These three in the front line are really blending together seamlessly. Borcas’ bassoon is an exciting addition to this session. I dig the sound a lot. Can’t remember if I have any other albums with that instrument present. Can’t be very common. I will definitely check out other stuff that she recorded, cause her performance is great. The rhythm section is also amazing, with Jay Oliver on double bass and Paul Murphy on drums. They are relentless in their approach. So technically gifted. The double bass is very prominent in the mix and the drums are super crisp, which makes for a great overall sound.
Three of the four tunes are of the longer format, which suits this kind of music very well. All numbers are composed by Lyons.
Got this one in today actually. Another blind buy from a local store. Couldn’t be happier with this title. The music is outstanding. Will have to take a deep dive into Lyons’ catalogue after listening to this album. Highly recommended if you enjoy some free stuff.