"This one is right up there with "Cuban Fire". And like "Cuban Fire", it combines beautiful melodies with interesting and innovative rhythms. These unusual time signatures may seem tame today, but you must remember that this was before Dave Brubeck and way before Don Ellis. Kenton innovation at its finest. This has always been one of my favorite albums. From the driving "Commencement" to the beautiful "Artemis and Apollo" there are no weak tracks on this album. A must for Kenton fans."
Classic Kenton/Richards
rbi82 | 01/27/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is simply a wonderful album. Johnny Richards is a wonderful composer/arranger who was very successful in integrating latin rhythms with Jazz. The Kenton band is at it's best here, with the wonderful Mellophonium Band of the early 60s. The music is complex and rewarding."
Can't miss
Bob Gross | Central PA | 02/02/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you like "time adventure" jazz, you can't beat this album. The suite is beautifully crafted from a structural standpoint- the band is tight- and I think you'll get a lot of listening pleasure from this. If you're fond of the Kenton Band- you really have to have this album for your collection."
Adventures In Time
Bob Gross | 12/18/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Yes, along with "Cuban Fire" an absolute masterpiece by Johnny Richards. Haunting, yet esoteric music for any Kenton fan.Each piece takes the listener on a trip through the Universe. Absolutely magnificent writing by a master of composition. The power and precision of each piece presents the listener with breathtaking time passages. First class solo work by Gabe Baltazar on alto, Don Menza on tenor, and Marvin Stamm on trumpet.As on the other Kenton "Mellophonium albums", these horns are once again showcased and their presence felt with power throughout the entire album. Absolute must for the fans of the Kenton "mellophomium period"."