A forgotten jazz landmark.
04/17/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Not just another blowing session re-issue, there are so many good tracks on this album that to listen from start to finish will put you on Jazz Cloud Nine. Modern, progressive, and passionate, there is a unique lyricism to the original compositions found on this disc that sets it apart from other Blue Note recordings of this period. From the infectious, undulating pulse of Stanley Cowell's "Dave's Chant" to the melodic see-saw wail of Harold Land's "Poor People's March", there's plenty of rhythmic variety, harmonic subtlety, melodic complexity, and dynamic intensity to satisfy even the most jaded listener. Comprising two rare "forgotten" Blue Note re-issues, "Medina" and "Spiral", it's two great albums for the price of one, along with some of the best soloing I've heard from Bobby Hutcherson and Harold Land. Buy this CD - you won't regret it. --Mark F."