OK, don't get me started...
I'll second the recommendations for the Sam Rivers/Pullen "Capricorn Rising," a flat-out burner, and the Roach "Scott Free."
Don't forget any of the Roscoe Mitchell titles. Not a one of 'em.
Anybody hear the interview with Michael Chertoff on "All Things Considered" yesterday? He too seemed quite clueless about the Convention Center situation.
Overly intellectualized by the people who play it? Occasionally.
By the people who write about it? Sometimes.
And what art isn't?
Generalizations don't help. Generally.
I sympathize with anyone who finds Rouse frustrating. He relies on the same gestures again and again. One phrase-beginning in particular is REALLY overused. There's not a lot of nuance in tone or time or attack.
But here's what I like: The just-mentioned tone and attack. And the willingness to work and rework an idea until he's satisfied with the result. Call it focus.
One example of Rouse with Monk getting it all right: The "Well You Needn't" solo on the Columbia It Club set. Four beautifully connected and contrasted (yes) choruses, full of inner logic, exploratory spirit and good humor. And the last bridge is woodshed stuff.
Put me down as a big fan.
Clifford Jordan on "Chilly Mac," on Andrew Hill's "Shades." This is funnier than she-it, without resorting to quotes.
And Fats Navarro on ... just about anything.