Starting in the early '80s, drummer
Paul Motian led a series of fascinating bands, usually pianoless and featuring the highly original guitarist
Bill Frisell. For this outing,
Motian and
Frisell are teamed with the tenors of
Jim Pepper and
Joe Lovano plus bassist
Ed Schuller. The drummer's seven originals feature lots of variety in moods, ranging from witty to introspective and showcasing the colorful players at their best.
Frisell (who is featured on "Lament") in particular sounds perfectly at home with
Motian's group. ~ Scott Yanow