By 1981, after four years of existence, it was obvious that the most talented writer in the
World Saxophone Quartet was altoist
Julius Hemphill. This Black Saint release finds
Hemphill contributing six of the eight pieces (the other two are by
Hamiet Bluiett), including the hard-swinging "Bordertown," the colorful "Steppin" and a vivid feature for
David Murray's tenor on "My First Winter." A particularly strong release by a classic and innovative group. ~ Scott Yanow