Some of
Steve Lacy's best work comes from his trios. Somehow, he seems most free and confident in this format, curiously more so than in his rare duo or more popular solo outings. Of course, in this instance, it does not hurt for
Lacy to be paired with drummer Dennis Charles and bassist
Ronnie Boykins, each of whom seems perfectly attuned to the saxophonist's approach. Charles and
Lacy go back to the 1950s together, when they played with
Cecil Taylor and
Gil Evans together. For this recording,
Lacy is highly focused, his improvisations taking on a more syncopated and aggressive flavor than usual. Charles and
Boykins kick hard, and the results are exemplary. The unusual choice of tunes (all composed by
Lacy) includes "Quirks," "Bud's Brother," "Capers," "We Don't," and "Kitty Malone." ~ Steven Loewy