It's really a shame that the world only got two Vi Redd records. A female saxophonist brings something a little different to the table than her male counterparts. There's no attempt to overpower a listener here, no charging brutality, brusquely shoving the other bandmembers aside to show whose is the longest. Rather, the mood is relaxed and pensive, a vibe perhaps accentuated by Jennell Hawkins on organ. Not to belabor an obvious point, but one woman on the stand was a rarity. Two or more usually would only have happened at the time as some sort of freakish promotional activity. This record is a sterling example of what the music lost in the name of its phallocentricity. Vi Redd demonstrates a thoughtful tone and a careful respect for those around here. Her solos are pithy and directly to the point. Her singing, as always, is a fragile joy. Quite honestly, there's really nothing quite like her records. The closest thing would probably be Chet Baker's records, but he did not cut a side as coherent in mood or vision as these are. Buy these records. ~ Rob Ferrier, All Music Guide
