Tenor saxophonist
Archie Shepp's third release for the Impulse label collects valuable loose ends recorded between March and August 1965. Among the highlights are a passionate reading of
Duke Ellington's "In a Sentimental Mood" and the title piece, a moving tribute to W.E.B. DuBois, featuring the haunting soprano vocalist
Christine Spencer employing a distinct 20th century classical influence, with
Shepp on piano.
Shepp is the solo horn on these dates, playing at peak form with contributions from vibraphonist
Bobby Hutcherson early in his career,
David Izenzon or
Henry Grimes on bass, and four rotating drummers, including
Rashied Ali,
J.C. Moses,
Joe Chambers, and
Ed Blackwell, playing a variety of percussion. ~ Al Campbell