Murray's Steps

Murray's Steps is the fifth album by David Murray to be released on the Italian Black Saint label and the third to feature his Octet. It was released in 1982 and features performances by Murray, Henry Threadgill, Bobby Bradford, Lawrence "Butch" Morris, Craig Harris, Curtis Clark, Wilber Morris and Steve McCall.^[1]

Reception

The Allmusic review by Scott Yanow awarded the album 5 stars stating "The octet is perfect for David Murray as an outlet for his writing, a showcase for his compositions, and an inspiring vehicle for his tenor and bass clarinet solos. For the third octet album (all are highly recommended), Murray meets up with quite a talented group of individuals: altoist Henry Threadgill, trumpeter Bobby Bradford, cornetist Butch Morris, trombonist Craig Harris, pianist Curtis Clark, bassist Wilber Morris, and drummer Steve McCall. Their interpretations of four of Murray's originals -- "Murray's Steps," "Sweet Lovely," "Sing Song," and "Flowers for Albert" -- are emotional, adventurous, and exquisite (sometimes all three at the same time).".^[2]

Track listing

1. "Murray's Steps" - 12:25
2. "Sweet Lovely" - 8:00
3. "Sing Song" - 9:40
4. "Flowers for Albert" - 9:40

All compositions by David Murray

• Recorded at Barigozzi Studios, Milano, July 14, 15 & 19,1982

Personnel

• David Murray - tenor saxophone, bass clarinet
• Henry Threadgill - alto saxophone
• Bobby Bradford - trumpet
• Lawrence "Butch" Morris - cornet
• Craig Harris - trombone
• Curtis Clark - piano
• Wilber Morris - bass
• Steve McCall - drums

References