The Art Ensemble Of Chicago: Live In Milano

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

Recent articles (1,632 total)

Published: December 1, 2001

This outing was originally issued as a bootleg LP ( Among the People ) amid some disagreements between the band and the producer, yet all concerns have since made amends as Live In Milano is officially released for the first time. The opening piece, "Tutankhamun," is an eighteen-minute extravaganza featuring Malachi Favors Magoustous's prominently conveyed walking bass lines, trumpeter Lester Bowie's emotionally driven attack, and Famoudou Don Moye's astute utilization of various percussion instruments. However, the group's often animated methodology and intelligent use of space and depth provides the listener with a well-rounded portraiture. Naturally, humor and pathos were a main component of the musicians' modus operandi via their mimicking of animal sounds, lighthearted exchanges, and swirling, world beat percussion statements. Besides, the band could swing with the best of them.

The remaining two tracks are all about primal rhythms, quaint melodies, fluent improvisations, and bluesy statements, whereas they engage in Dixieland tinged, New Orleans type shuffle grooves on "A Jackson in Your House." Simply put, this newly reissued recording should please the artists' longtime admirers. Recommended

Leo Records (Golden Years of New Jazz)

Track Listing: 1.Tutankhamun 2.Illinstrun 3.A Jackson in Your House

Personnel: Lester Bowie: trumpet, percussion

Record Label: Golden Years of New Jazz
Style: Modern Jazz