Geechee Recollections was the first in a trilogy of recordings by saxophonist
Marion Brown that both honored the work of poet Jean Toomer and revisited his upbringing in Georgia. Together, they form arguably the most beautiful and satisfying output of
Brown's lengthy career. The music, while remaining experimental, is grounded in Southern folk themes and blues, epitomized on tracks like the funky "Buttermilk Bottom" here. A Toomer poem, Karintha is given a striking reading by Bill Hasson and, throughout the recording,
Brown receives excellent support by a strong ensemble including trumpeter
Leo Smith and the great drummer
Steve McCall.
Brown, with his marvelously limpid tone on alto, is a joy to hear and seems more at home and relaxed here than on some of his more strident early records. Recommended. ~ Brian Olewnick