This unusual set was one of the most successful uses of a gospel choir in a jazz context. Trumpeter
Donald Byrd and a septet that includes tenor saxophonist
Hank Mobley, guitarist
Kenny Burrell, and pianist
Herbie Hancock are joined by an eight-voice choir directed by Coleridge Perkinson. The arrangements by
Duke Pearson are masterful and one song, "Cristo Redentor," became a bit of a hit. This is a memorable effort that is innovative in its own way, a milestone in
Donald Byrd's career. ~ Scott Yanow