Malcolm Goldstein - Live at Fire in the Valley (1997)

Violinist Malcolm Goldstein has done it many times before, but, somehow, his unique approach is always full of surprises. His "Soundings" have been a continual process since the 1960s and this is not the first time he has recorded from "Configurations in Darkness." Still, this live set at the legendary Fire in the Valley Festival displays the eclectic violinist at his very best. His dedication to Ornette Coleman, "when the river overflows," is a wonderful tribute that never subsides. This beautifully recorded solo performance (lasting more than an hour) exhibits the exquisite technique of the master with his miraculously scratchy sound. The results are never less than fascinating, even after so many years of playing. There are few, if any, string players with Goldstein's vision, and it has rarely been shown to better effect than on this album.