Live In Willisau Switzerland 1983
Rhythm’n’Flow, 2025
9/10
Listen to Live In Willisau Switzerland 1983
In 1983, James Newton, Anthony Cox, Geri Allen and Andrew Cyrille hit the European jazz scene, but never released a recording. But then the producer Stephan Meyner came across this set from the Willisau in Switzerland, which captures 3 originals and an interpretation.
“Reincarnation of a Lovebird” opens, and allows for Newton’s meticulous flute to shine alongside Cox’s playful bass that unfolds across 11+ minutes of free jazz exploration in the Charles Mingus piece.
The 2 Newton originals land in the middle.“Pinkie Below” leads with a gentle quality that emits a distinct intimacy thanks to Allen’s dreamy keys, while “Forever Charles” is a rich and dynamic bout that blends the frisky wind with Cyrille’s animated drums, precise bass and firm keys.
The last track, “Printmakers”, by Allen, brings us 21 minutes of melodic and exciting instrumentation, where all 4 players exhibit their inimitable talents in spades.
A highly technical and confident set, Newton and company perform with incredible awareness and agility for a recording that really has aged well and will impress any fan of jazz.
Travels well with: Charles Mingus- Charles Mingus Presents Charles Mingus; Randy Napoleon- Waking Dream: The Music Of Gregg Hill & Randy Napoleon