The first of clarinetist John Carter's five-part series in which he musically depicts the history of black Americans is one of the strongest. For the only set on Black Saint (the following chapters were released by Gramavision),
Carter utilizes a notable octet which also includes cornetist Bobby Bradford, flutist
James Newton,
Charles Owens on soprano, oboe and clarinet, bassist
Roberto Miranda, the veteran
Red Callender on tuba, drummer
William Jeffrey, and
Luis Peralta on percussion. The five originals pay tribute to life in Africa a few centuries ago, mixing together folk melodies with very advanced improvising;
Newton and
Callender in particular really excel in this setting. Highly recommended for open-eared listeners. ~ Scott Yanow