Great jazz
sam | midwest | 03/29/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Exciting compositions--jazz with Middle Eastern flourishes--coupled with the unusual frontline combination of trumpet, violin, and vibes result in some really intriguing and fun music. The music reminds me of some of Duke Ellington's 60s suites played in a 60s Blue Note vein.
Billy Bang and Roy Campbell are veterans who play from the heart.... sincere and immediate, nothing contrived. The concert is well-recorded, incidentally. Recommended"
Roy's very good live date
Louis O. Moore | Lancaster, TX USA | 10/27/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great conceptual development by Roy Campbell in using eastern influences and unconventional instrumentation to produce an interesting date. Billy Bang on violin was a great choice for this date because they apparently have a musical bond. Billy Bang also showed his ability to incorporate eastern styles into his music with "Vietnam: The Aftermath" and "Vietnam: Reflections". Bryan Carrott gives the music an otherwordly feel with his vibraharp. The musicians play with passion for most of the recording. Roy Campbell occasionally soars on his trumpet. However, there is some sloppiness. "Akhenaten" is played with great fire and energy, but Roy Campbell and Billy Bang were out of sync when restating the head at the end of the song. Nevertheless this is a solid album worth the investment."