Andrew Cyrille - The Navigator (1983)

Cyrille displayed his facility at sympathetically and smartly guiding other players throughout this date, interacting with bassist Nick Di Geronimo to design a framework that allowed trumpeter Ted Daniel maximum space and room for his piercing solos, and spurred pianist Sonelius Smith. When necessary, Cyrille soloed with a rigorous discipline and percussive vitality, but was more concerned with overall group dynamics and sound. Daniel was particularly impressive on longer cuts, where his lines, phrases and solos were crisp, expertly articulated and surging. The sound was bright and full, and this is an example of thoughtful, nicely played group improvisation.