William Parker Through Acceptance Of The Mystery Peace CD

This recording is an important part of bassist William Parker's early discography. The CD collects the four ensemble pieces issued on the original LP, but adds one number and includes the complete version of another that was clipped. The sound quality is slightly subpar, but the raw, 1960s feel of this album should appeal to those who appreciate the unassuming brilliance of this giant of the string bass. Each of the five tracks features different groups, with Parker composing all pieces and appearing on four. The two larger ensembles presage some of the large bands Parker was to lead in the 1990s. Here, he features soloists on the level of Toshinori Kondo on alto horn, Daniel Carter on saxophones and trumpet, and Charles Brackeen on tenor saxophone. The chamber-like smaller groups stun with shimmering beauty, and string players Billy Bang, Tristan Honsinger, Ramsey Ameen, and Jason Hwang each contribute nicely. Some may not completely appreciate Parker's heartfelt recitation on the closing number, but there is plenty here to satisfy those who enjoy the bassist's style of new music. ~ Steve Loewy

Recorded between 1974 & 1979.

Personnel: Polly Bradfield, Ramsey Ameen, Jason Kao Hwang, Billy Bang (violin); Tristan Honsinger (cello); Daniel Carter (flute, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet); Will Connell Jr. (flute, alto saxophone); Henri Warner, Rozanne Levine (clarinet); Peter Kuhn (bass clarinet); Charles Brackeen (saxophone, tenor saxophone); Jemeel Moondoc (alto saxophone); John Hagen (tenor saxophone); Toshinori Kondo (trumpet, alto horn); Arthur Williams (trumpet); Denis Charles (drums); Roger Baird (percussion).

Audio Remasterer: Jim Hemingway.

Liner Note Author: William Parker .

Recording information: 02/??/1974-01/21/1979.

Photographer: Robert Herman.

Personnel includes: William Parker (bass); Daniel Carter (alto & tenor saxophones, trumpet, flute); Will Connell, Jr. (alto saxophone, flute); Jemeel Moondoc (alto saxophone); Charles Brackeen, John Hagan (tenor saxophone); Arthur Williams (trumpet); Toshinori Kondo (alto horn); Peter Kuhn, Rozanne Levine, Henry Warner (clarinet); Billy Bang, Ramsey Ameen, Jason Kao Hwang, Polly Bradfield (violin); Tristan Honsinger (cello); Roger Baird, Denis Charles (drums).