This is the
Marilyn Crispell CD to start out with. The avant-garde pianist, most influenced by
Cecil Taylor but increasingly original through the years, explores eight selections during a dynamic live set. In addition to five originals,
Crispell plays very fresh (and unpredictable) versions of "When I Fall in Love,"
Thelonious Monk's "Ruby, My Dear," and
John Coltrane's spiritual "Dear Lord." In addition, the 55 minutes of solo piano are joined by two numbers featuring
Crispell that were also released on other Music & Arts releases: a duet with
Anthony Braxton and "Wha's Nine" from a very adventurous
Reggie Workman set with vocalist
Jeanne Lee and clarinetist
Don Byron. Invigorating music. ~ Scott Yanow