I've never got on with Freeman, always sounds to me like he fits too easily into whatever scenario he's playing in, a technician definitely but no real personality.
Even on the McBee Enjas, which I do like, he seems not too convincing.
I had 'Kings Of Mali' for a long time but sold it on, even with Hoggard on it, because it left me cold. Which is the best description of how I find his playing, even when ostensibly fiery.
I know lots of other folk disagree and I'm happy to admit it's a blind(deaf?)-spot for me