Last Exit Angel

Liberation Prophecy, an ensemble based in Louisville, KY, performs a highly original set of music by its leader altoist Jacob Duncan. Their publicity says that they mix together Charles Mingus, Frank Zappa, Carla Bley and Sun Ra, and although that really does not describe the musical results, one can see their point. Liberation Prophecy's music is episodic, unpredictable, has aspects of jazz and rock plus their own brand of wit, and will keep listeners guessing. The emphasis is on ensembles (though there are individual heroics) and, although tightly arranged in spots, there is a lot of spontaneity to the results. Norah Jones makes a guest appearance on "Lonely Lament" but otherwise the occasional vocals are taken by Andre Easton with assistance from Jacob Duncan. It is best not to try to understand the point behind the lyrics and simply enjoy the music, which ranges from a bit inscrutable to surprisingly comfortable.