by Scott YanowAn interesting but not essential set, this unusual date allowed Roscoe Mitchell (heard on soprano, alto, tenor and flute) to head a nonet also consisting of trumpeter Hugh Ragin, trombonist George Lewis, both Matthew Shipp and Craig Taborn on pianos, the twin basses of Jaribu Shahid and William Parker and both Tani Tabbel and Gerald Cleaver on drums. The performances are mostly concise, emphasize ensembles (it is difficult to believe that the two rhythm sections are playing simultaneously) and are sometimes surprisingly mellow although there are intense moments (such as on "Hop Hip Bip Bir Rip"). None of the original pieces are that memorable but the overall mood is haunting and at times jubilant. An intriguing addition to Roscoe Mitchell's discography.