Early Combinations is an album by a formative stage of the band which later became the Art Ensemble of Chicago. It was recorded in 1967 at Lester Bowie's home but not issued as a single CD until 2012 by Nessa Records. The two tracks on the album were originally included in the 1993 limited edition box set Art Ensemble 1967/68, also released by Nessa.[1] "A To Ericka" was recorded for submission to a Jazz Festival in Poland and was unsuccessful in its purpose. "Quintet" was a dress rehearsal for a concert arranged by Jarman to take place at Winnetka High School that was cancelled.[2]
Reception
The JazzTimes review by Mike Shanley notes that "It’s impressive how strong these two 20-minute-plus tracks sound, considering the group was not a proper unit at the time."[3]
Track listing
- "A to Ericka" (Favors / Mitchell / Jarman) - 21:39
- "Quintet" (Joseph Jarman) - 22:47
Personnel
- Roscoe Mitchell - alto sax, soprano sax, clarinet, flute
- Joseph Jarman - alto sax, sopranino sax, clarinet, flute, bassoon
- Lester Bowie - trumpet, flugelhorn
- Malachi Favors - bass
- Charles Clark - bass on #1
- Thurman Barker - drums
References
- ^ Early Combinations at Nessa Records
- ^ Liner notes by Terry Martin
- ^ Shanley, Mike. Early Combinations review at JazzTimes
