David Liebman's long list of accomplishments includes working in many different-sized groups in a variety of styles. For this big-band project the soprano saxophonist leads a big band in concert playing his compositions, though with arrangements by others and the band conducted by
Gunnar Mossblad (who also plays several reed instruments). "Brite Piece" was first recorded by
Liebman early in his career when he was a sideman with
Elvin Jones. Although its composer dismisses it as "just a simple ditty with a vamp in the bridge,"
Andrew Rathbun's arrangement for big band provides
Liebman with colorful backgrounds for his improvised flights. Trumpeter and alto flügelhornist
Scott Reeves, who took part in the concerts, scored two songs. "Annubis" is an exotic, mysterious piece with the leader playing wooden flute in the introduction, with a solo by oboist
Charles Pillow (with a delicious vamp behind him by bass clarinetist Chris Karlic), an understated Middle Eastern-flavored
Vic Juris guitar solo, and an ominous synthesizer interlude by
Jim Ridl, followed by spots featuring
Liebman's piercing soprano sax and
Reeves' spacious alto flügelhorn. The second
Reeves chart is another early
Liebman work, in which the arranger scored
Liebman's original solo from his record with
Elvin Jones for the sax section. The explosive finale, "Turn It Around," showcases drummer
Marko Marcinko and
Juris, in addition to the leader.
Liebman hasn't been heard in a big-band setting often enough during his career; perhaps the success of
Live: As Always will open doors for future recordings. ~ Ken Dryden