This post is by Dan
Frank Lowe (ts); Don Cherry (tr); Grachan Moncur III (tb); Geri Allen (p); Charnett Moffett (b); Charles Moffett (d)
Recorded September 24 and 28, 1984
Decision in Paradise is Frank Lowe's second Soul Note record of the 1980s, the first being Exotic Heartbreak, which we reviewed earlier. Recording engineer David Baker oversaw the sessions in New York City.
The lineup for this sequel differs, as do the composer credits. Lowe is joined on the front line by veterans Don Cherry on pocket trumpet and Grachan Moncur III on trombone. Cherry enjoys deserved reverence for his contributions to classic recordings by Ornette Coleman; Moncur appeared on several Blue Note albums in the 1960s, notably his own Evolution.
The rhythm section includes relative newcomer Geri Allen, Charles Moffett (another Ornette alum) and Moffett's son Charnett. (The younger Moffett's name is misspelled on the front and rear album cover, but Art Lange gets it correct in his liner notes).
"Lowe-ologie," "Decision in Paradise," You Dig!," and "Dues and Don'ts" all feature the entire group, providing space for excellent solos based on simple thematic material. This is thoughtful music that sounds rough around the edges, which of course is Lowe's intent. Allen shines on her solos, which smooth a few of the rough edges. Moncur fits right into this mode of playing and contributes several stunning solos.
Two tracks use a smaller lineup. Cherry echoes his days with Ornette on his "Cherryco," which omits piano and trombone. "I'll Whistle Your Name" is a short solo performance by Lowe. The tune does not appear to be recorded by anyone else, not even by its composer, Butch Morris. It's a nice touch on an album that is full of surprises.
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