This is an interesting set, teaming the adventurous altoist
Steve Coleman with a group of veteran all-stars including tenor saxophonist
Von Freeman, one of his inspirations. Also in the band are
Dave Holland and the other members of the bassist's group at the time (trumpeter
Kenny Wheeler and drummer Marvin "Smitty" Smith in addition to
Coleman), plus guitarist
Kevin Eubanks, second drummer
Ed Blackwell and (in a bit of a surprise) pianist
Tommy Flanagan. The music is essentially a quirky version of straight-ahead jazz with generally strong solos from the diverse players, hints of
Coleman's M-Base music, and some blues. Intriguing but not essential. ~ Scott Yanow