All of the music from two
Woody Shaw Muse albums (
Cassandranite and
Love Dance) and one selection from a 1971 date led by drummer
Joe Chambers ("Medina") are reissued on this 1997 two-CD set. Trumpeter
Shaw is heard near the beginning of his career on the former session, a 1965 outing with tenor saxophonist
Joe Henderson and two different rhythm section (featuring either
Larry Young or
Herbie Hancock on piano). Although more influenced by
Freddie Hubbard at that time then he would be,
Shaw's harmonically advanced style was already quite recognizable. The
Love Dance set (from 1975) has the trumpeter joined by other forward-thinking players, including altoist
Rene McLean,
Billy Harper on tenor and pianist
Joe Bonner. The emphasis throughout is on original material, and the music is modal-oriented while looking ahead. This is advanced music by one of the great jazz trumpeters. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide