Julius Hemphill - Big Band (1988)

The only recording by altoist Julius Hemphill at the head of a big band is a mostly very stimulating set of exploratory music. Some of the music wanders a bit, and K. Curtis Lyle's talking on his poem "Drunk On God" is a distraction, but other selections feature colorful solos from many players, including Hemphill (doubling on soprano), guitarist Bill Frisell, (well showcased on "Bordertown"), trombonist Frank Lacy, and the tenors of John Stubblefield and John Purcell. This valuable, but increasingly rare CD is particularly notable for giving one a rare chance to hear Hemphill's adventurous big-band arrangements.