The Next Rebirth

One of the finest saxophonists of the avant-garde, Bert Wilson has mostly recorded for his own FMO label through the years. This Nine Winds LP was a welcome exception, giving the highly original improviser (heard here on tenor, alto and bass clarinet) a little more exposure than usual. He is featured on nine of his originals along with flutist Nancy Curtis (whose gentle sound complements Wilson well), pianist Allen Youngblood, bassist Chuck Metcalf, drummer Bob Meyer and percussionist Michael Olson. While fairly free in spots, the compositions each have their own personality, and some utilize swinging rhythms and chordal improvising. The highlight is the tenor/drums duet on "Speed of Light."