This relatively early solo effort by
Steve Lacy on soprano saxophone succeeds in ways that some of his later work does not. The four tracks are all part of
Axieme, which explores sound, timbre, and rhythm in
Lacy's inimitable style. Some of the licks that are so identified with the saxophonist are here (including snippets of
Monk), but what makes this so appealing is the freedom expressed. The first "Part" starts with a theme, and repeats it over and over again with minor changes until it becomes something new. Elsewhere,
Lacy displays some of his more radical work, with extended technique predominant. As with all of his solo improvisations, the recording is demanding of the listener; but there is enough variety to easily hold the listener's attention for the entire length of the CD. Between
Lacy's over-blowing, distortions, and explosions (relatively speaking, as
Lacy is not by nature a screecher), and his exquisite use of sound, this is a rewarding recording. ~ Steve Loewy