Live At Laren

Lee Konitz revived his nonet for the occasion of this 1979 concert, with trumpeters Red Rodney and John Eckert, baritonist Ronnie Cuber, trombonist Jimmy Knepper, and tuba player/bass trombonist Sam Burtis joining him in the front line. Lennie Tristano's April," a challenging reworking of the standard "I'll Remember April," proves to be an inspired opener, with great solos all around. Knepper's blues "Who You" has the flavor of Charles Mingus' early-'60s compositions. Konitz's scoring of "Without a Song" begins with an unaccompanied alto solo before taking on a Latin flavor. Pianist Benny Aronov switches to the electric keyboard for an intricate take of Chick Corea's "Times Lie," while the nonet charges head first into the lengthy exploration of Corea's "Matrix." One of the less familiar releases in Lee Konitz's extensive discography, this Soul Note CD is worth tracking down. (All Music Guide - Ken Dryden)