Search - Allen, Haden, Motian :: Segments

Tight collaboration, playful energy in this must-buy album.

D. Long | The Emerald City | 08/28/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Although typically noted as an Allen release, this is an important vehicle for all three of these master musicians. Each in their own right was a whirlwind of performances, collaborations, compositions, and recordings during the late 80's and that energy and edginess shows itself mightily here. This album was my first exposure to this collaboration (note there are two other releases from them during this same year, not counting guest spots and one-offs!) and I was overwhelmed by the power and balance that they achieve together. When I saw the album, I rather suspected it to be dominated by Haden with the other two wondering: where is he going anyway? (Aficionados will appreciate that Charlie Haden can sometimes blaze his own path ;) So, I was eating my own words, so to speak, on my first listen. I found myself consumed by each piece and was straining impatiently at the end of each so that I could 'test' the next one - were they ALL really going to be this good?!

Yes! This trio is remarkable. Each breaking out and then being drawn back in by the other two. Allen and Motian are in equal control with Haden. Allen is brilliant and essential throughout. Motian stakes out a swath not just with Cabala/Drum Music, but also in I'm All Smiles. Haden is a glue that binds them all together. The title track is an excellent testament to the power of Balance. A jazz Three Musketeers - all for one, and one for all. I believe that any jazz fan will hear and feel the uncanny sense of awareness, and of each other, that these three masters have captured on this recording.

I rate this a Five-Star-Oh-My-Gosh-I've-Got-To-Have-It award :)

... now, on to 'In the Year of the Dragon'..."