Search - Julius Hemphill :: Flat-Out Jump Suite

Far Out Jump Suite

Douglas T Martin | Alpharetta, GA USA | 02/07/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A very interesting but audibly frustrating recording. The music is good but the sound quality reminds me of Ornette Coleman's "Ornette on Tenor" recording from the early 60's. Not as noticeable over speakers, the sound quality is kind of flat in headphones. "Ear" opens the set with a duet of percussion and flute before being joined by the rest of the group. "Mind (1st Part)" showcases Olu Dara who plays unaccompanied trumpet to begin the piece; later in the piece Hemphill returns on flute, singing through his instrument to create additional dissonance. "Mind (2nd Part)" is essentially a Warren Smith percussion solo - very quiet and subdued. "Heart" sounds like a recording of the classic Ornette Coleman quartet from the aforementioned "Ornette on Tenor". On that recording Coleman played tenor sax (hence the title), something he rarely does; on this recording Hemphill, trades in his usual alto and soprano saxes for tenor - for the only time I know of. "Heart" is full of adrenaline, charging ahead fast and furious as Abdul Wadud tears through staccato patterns on his cello. "Body" - as described in the liner notes - is "ass-shaking, finger-popping, toe-tapping music that makes you want to set your drink on the bar and hit the dance floor". A fair-enough description I think. As far as the recording goes, It may be a little too 'out' for the casual jazz listener, but for those interested in the New-York-loft-scene genre of the 70's and 80's "Flat Out Jump Suite" would be a good addition to their CD library."

A wonderful Suite

Douglas T Martin | 01/06/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hemphill turns in his softest cd. Only the closing track contains the fire and funkiness nomally associated with Hemphill. Hemphill's flute on the opening cut is beautiful."