by Joslyn LayneRecorded over the course of two days in May 1990, Piano Solo, Vol. 1 offers a wide cross-section of the many modes of impressive improviser and pianist Irene Schweizer. It moves almost without pause through various forms and moods. In a ten-minute span one hears the spacious and lovely "The Ballad of the Sad Café," immediately juxtaposed against the jaunty, prepared piano rattling accompaniment of "Wo Ist Mein Hund?," which flows into the abstract, single-note searching and percussive hand volleying of "Backlash." With well-timed moments of suspense and humor, this album is a great listen and a good sampling of what Schweizer does.