Grachan Moncur III – New Africa

Hell of a lineup. Sort of subdued in comparison to other albums but very good.

Stunning recording. What Grachan Moncur lacks in quantity of albums, he makes up for in quality. Worth it for the "New Africa" Suite alone, but I think "When" is the true high point. One of the finest modal bass walks you'll be lucky enough to take. The interplay of Shepp's sax and Moncur's trombone rustle around you like the sweet chill of an autumn wind. Andrew Cyrille's drums are almost crystalline. A sublime effort overall.

Most of the material from BYG Actuel that I've been exposed to lies just beyond the limits of the "Free Jazz" sandbox I am comfortable playing in, but this one strolls that edge with class and warmth. The original French vinyl is insanely heavy—one of the thickest I own—and is thus susceptible to warping. That being said, the sound quality is magnificent, so even a copy with a pronounced dish probably won't ruin your experience.

sonny's back alone makes this a must have.....cookin' at the highest level ....saw dave burrell play last week.....the living end of a dying art

Just wonderful.