50th Birthday Concert

Chronique

This splendidly produced twofer features Parker on disc one with Alex von Schlippenbach and percussionist Paul Lovens, and on disc two with his usual trio of bassist Barry Guy and percussionist Paul Lytton. What a splendid birthday celebration this was! Parker is clearly at the peak of his form, and he is enjoying the interaction with these two splendid groups. Schlippenbach's angular, dense, and wild acrobatics blend well with Parker's energized super technique. The saxophonist is all over his horn, doubling himself, jabbing and darting, but always in control. The second disc displays Barry Guy and Paul Lytton interacting like clockwork, the moods changing, and the energy unrelenting. Lytton shows why he is Parker's drummer of choice: not only does he sport great technique, but he is always fascinating to hear. The six pages of photos and reminiscences by Parker in the liner notes are icing on the cake. Not to be missed, this is great Evan Parker all the way.

© Steve Loewy /TiVo