A slice of wonder from 2003

From the occasional series "Missed This at the Time"

The release slate for ECM Records in 2003 included a challenging work from Dino Saluzzi (Responsorium), a time-melting set from the Art Ensemble of Chicago (Tribute To Lester), Andras Schiff’s treatment of Bach’s The Goldberg Variations, a much-celebrated live work from Dave Holland’s Quintet (Extended Play: Live at Birdland), a Keith Jarrett/Gary Peacock/Jack DeJohnette trio foray (Up For It) and a rhapsodic work by Savina Yannatou/ Primavera en Salonico (Terra Nostra).

Among these and other contemporary masterworks was this understated gem. Which deserved more airspace then, and deserves it now. It’s one of the more star-studded efforts in the discography of label mainstay Miroslav Vitous — the revolving crew includes reedman Jan Garbarek, pianist Chick Corea, guitarist John McLaughlin and drummer Jack DeJohnette. Exploring the multiple pathways suggested and implied by Vitous’ compositions, the musicians bring lightning-fast reflexes and keen appreciation for open lines of communication; though there are outbreaks of individual prowess here, they take a backseat to the shifting textures and fitful, rousing interplay of the group.