Live at the Berlin Philharmonic, 1977

A nostalgic dip with nostalgia for a vibrant live concert? Then this 'Live At The Berlin Philharmonic' is a recommended remedy. Recorded in 1977 with the legendary brothers Michael and Randy Brecker on the front line along with pianist Hal Galper, bassist Wayne Dockery and drummer Bob Moses.

Galper, at the time sidekick to Dave Holland and Lee Konitz, among others, just returned from three years of touring with the Cannonball Adderley Quintet and wanted to continue on the same track. Just contact the Brecker Brothers with whom he also performed years before. With bassist Wayne Dockery and drummer Bob Moses he had his own dream quintet. For a year they were guests at New York's Sweet Basil Jazz Club on Sunday afternoons to build up a repertoire. This led to, among others, 'Reach Out' (Steeplechase, 1977) and 'Speak With A Single Voice' (Century, 1979). Solid material, but this recording is much stronger and more convincing.

Six songs (all by Galper with the exception of 'I'll Never Stop Loving You') varying in length between twelve and twenty-four (!) Minutes, spread over two discs. One climax follows the other. Fierce, straight in front of the fist and freewheeling without even a second of doubt, the five race through the set.

One track comes from the concert of January 11, 1978 during the Berlin Jazz Days, but fits perfectly with the rest. The gentlemen end in thoroughbred blues mode. Good to hear something from an era when live was really live.