A record that's definitely as brilliant as promised in the title – a set that has the young pianist
Stanley Cowell bridging the late 60s Blue Note modal sound and his greatness to come on the Strata East label – all with a style that would set the tone for so many other players and groups in the 70s! The mix of musicians here is a dream – not just
Cowell on piano, but also Bobby Hutcherson on vibes, Woody Shaw on trumpet, Tyrone Washington on tenor and flute, Reggie Workman on bass, and Joe Chambers on drums – all players with maybe a bit more under their belt, but who also instantly lock into
Cowell's visionary new sound – spun out in a mix of modal moments and freer solos, on tunes penned by members of the group. Every track is nice and long, and has a spiritual jazz vibe that owes a lot more to the worlds of
Cowell, Hutcherson, and Shaw than it does John Coltrane – as you'll hear on titles that include "Brilliant Circles", "Earthly Heavens", "Boo Ann's Grand", and "Bobby's Tune". CD reissue has two bonus cuts: "Musical Prayers" and "Brilliant Circles"!
(Out of print, original Black Lion pressing.)