Customer Reviews

When Elephants Dream of Music

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As Bob Moses conceives of music, his improvisation follows a non-theme-solo-theme line, preffering instead to combine the two parts in a creative and imaginative, open-ended development; an unique rythm section provided by percussion masters, like Vasconcelos or Moses himself. Do your best to listen to this CD--it really gives a fresh and groundbreaking impetus to the genre itself!

Although best known as a flexible and tasteful drummer, Bob Moses displayed a great deal of talent as a composer and arranger on this exciting project. He utilized a particularly colorful cast of characters, including altoist David Gross, Jim Pepper on tenor, cornetist Terumasa Hino, trombonist Barry Rogers, flutist Jeremy Steig, vibraphonist David Friedman, guitarist Bill Frisell, keyboardist Lyle Mays, electric bassist Steve Swallow, Howard Johnson on electric contrabass clarinet and tuba, and the voices of Sheila Jordan and Jeanne Lee, among many others. Some of the music is quite lyrical and laid-back, and there are tributes to Miles Davis and Billy Strayhorn, but it is the rambunctious and hilarious "Everybody Knows You When You're Up and In" (his answer to "Nobody Knows You When You're Down and Out") that is most memorable. Highly recommended. Produced by Bob Moses and Pat Metheny.

Very improvisational, highly influenced by Mingus. Somewhat whimsical at times, like the "art deco" sound of Pithecanthropus Erectus. Great use of background vocals. Lots of instruments and artists. Fresh sound good for many listenings.

Bob Moses really is one of music's hidden gems, not only is he a brilliant, creative drummer, but also a very original composer/arranger. Combining equal measures of Gil Evan's vast sonic palette, variety of genres at the drop of a hat, off-center humor, deep musicianship and a willingness to take all kinds of risks, Bob created a masterpiece that has never been duplicated or rivaled in any manner. The impressive cast of musicians and vocalists sure doesn't hurt, beautiful recording/production too. Nothing like this anywhere, can't recommend it enough.