This is one of
Gil Evans's finest recordings of the 1970s. He expertly blended together acoustic and electronic instruments, particularly on an exciting rendition of "Blues in Orbit" (which includes among its soloists a young altoist named
David Sanborn). All six selections have their memorable moments (even a one-and-a-half minute version of "Eleven"); colorful solos are contributed by guitarist
Ted Dunbar,
Howard Johnson on tuba and flügelhorn, the passionate tenor of
Billy Harper, and bassist
Herb Bushler, among others; and
Evans's arrangements are quite inventive and innovative. Rarely would he be so successful in balancing written and improvised sections in his later years. ~ Scott Yanow