What's your take, brownie? I like some early Ellis - New Ideas, Out of Nowhere - never got into How Time Passes. His later stuff has no interest for me. I know that Essence is earlier, but I've never heard it so I'm interested in your opinion.
I like those early Don Ellis appearances (especially those with George Russell, and also with Mingus) and 'Essence' is an album that stands out very well.
Won't say the same with the later stuff. Not a fan of his big band!