A legendary meeting of these two modernists – and a record that's filled with sharp-edged new ideas! Both Ken McIntyre and Eric Dolphy play alto and flute on the album – and Dolphy contributes a bit of bass clarinet as well – and the pair receive a bit of straighter backing than usual from a trio that includes Walter Bishop on piano, Sam Jones on bass, and Art Taylor on drums. The soulful undercurrent in the rhythm section is nicely offset by the free-thinking reed work of Dolphy and McIntyre – and the record's got a slyly sinister edge that still holds up extremely well over the years. Titles include "Lautir", "Curtsy", "Dianna", and "Head Shakin". CD

One of the few albums ever cut by this incredible tenor sax player – a wonderful talent that we only know from a handful of records – all of which we love! This date's got a bold sound that very much lives up to its cover, and Alexander's placement on Prestige's New Jazz label – a vibrant sound that's got elements of the 60s underground of Eric Dolphy or Ken McIntyre, but which also has a more flowing, soulful vibe as well – almost a precursor to later spiritual jazz elements of the 70s. No surprise, the great Marcus Belgrave is in the quintet on trumpet – as is Ronnie Mathews on piano, with rhythm support from Gene Taylor on bass and Clarence Stroman on drums. Almost all tracks are originals – and titles include "I'll Be Around", "Dorman Road", "Lil's Blues", and "Orders To Take Out". LP, Vinyl record album