Alto and tenor saxophonist
George Cartwright always seems to perform eccentric and unpredictable music, and that certainly holds true with this project. Five of the 11 selections (all written or co-written by
Cartwright) feature the leader in an ensemble with guitar, accordion, organ, bass, and drums. Although the music is avant-garde, it is not completely free and the themes usually set the mood and direction for the improvisations. Other tunes include such notables as
Zeena Parkins on organ and accordion, pianist
Myra Melford, and singer
Ann Rupel. Because the music is so complex and unusual, it will take several listens to fully appreciate, but it is worth the effort.