Song for the Old World

by Scott Yanow Pianist/composer Anthony Davis has long been one of the most interesting musicians of his generation. His music is difficult to categorize, ranging from explorative jazz to classical with many stops in between. This early album (with a quartet also featuring vibraphonist Jay Hoggard, bassist Mark Helias and drummer Ed Blackwell) finds Davis performing six of his wide-ranging compositions. In addition to a feature for Hoggard and tributes to the bebop generation and Andrew Hill, the most impressive piece is the title cut which has fragments of melodies from Africa and Asia. This subtle album rewards repeated listenings.