Although these live tracks were recorded on the same evening in 1978 as
McCoy Tyner's earlier Milestone album
Passion Dance, they inexplicably remained unreleased until 2004. With
Tyner joined by a powerful rhythm section consisting of bassist
Ron Carter and drummer
Tony Williams, the fireworks begin with an explosive interpretation of the pianist's "The Greeting." Next are two solo piano features, including a return to
Tyner's exotic "Aisha" and "Sama Layuca," the latter building upon a hypnotic vamp from
Tyner's left hand as thunderous chords with occasional tremolos are played by his right hand.
Tyner begins
Duke Ellington's "Prelude to a Kiss" with a well-disguised introduction before entering familiar territory just prior to
Carter's entrance, producing an absolutely stunning interpretation. The disc wraps with the return of
Williams for
Tyner's "Iki Mashio (Let's Go)," another over the top work comparable to the pianist's "Passion Dance," with an interlude featuring a quiet but intricate solo by
Carter. Even with
Tyner's fierce attack at the keyboard and his heavy use of the sustain pedal at times, the sound is remarkably clear. ~ Ken Dryden