Hal Galper's recordings always have an adventurous spirit, and the live CD
Art-Work is no exception. The veteran pianist, joined by bassist
Reggie Workman and drummer Rashid Ali (both veterans of
John Coltrane's bands, though not at the same time), launches into a furious exploration of
Duke Ellington's simple riff blues "Take the Coltrane," though
Galper incorporates dissonance into the introduction and quickly builds steam as he takes the piece far from its roots into a much freer setting.
Galper's approach to the modal masterpiece "Blue in Green" is also light years different from the usual arrangement, spacing out its theme into clusters at first, then launching into unfamiliar territory, also showcasing a fine solo by
Workman. His dynamic setting of
Charlie Parker's "Constellation" has more in common with avant-garde jazz than bop.
Galper has long been a respected composer; his heartfelt ballad "Soliloquy" conveys a lonely air while still challenging the audience with its unusual structure. Beautifully recorded in concert at William Paterson University, this is an essential addition to
Hal Galper's extensive discography. ~ Ken Dryden