Track Listing

1. Damn If I Know (The Stroller)
2. Frankenstein
3. Fiesta
4. Sophisticated Lady
5. New Africa [*]
6. Bakai [*]

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #19327 in Music
• Released on: 1998-10-06
• Number of discs: 1
• Dimensions: .19 pounds

Customer Reviews

"Way Ahead" of the Field
"The Way Ahead" is one of Archie Shepp's best albums for the Impulse label, and in my opinion, finally provides the overall consistency that is lacking in some of the earlier releases. While the tunes are eclectic, from the warped avant-blues "The Stroller" to the fiery "Frankenstein" to Duke Ellington's "Sophisticated Lady," it is the group's approach and telepathic improvising that distinguish this recording. While the group only has three horns in the frontline (Shepp, Grachan Moncur and trumpeter Jimmy Owens) compared to four each on "Four for Trane" and "Fire Music," they get a richer, fuller sound here. Just compare this "Frankenstein" to the version on Jackie McLean's "One Step Beyond." There are so many added horn textures here it's like they are different songs. The addition of a piano-man, Walter Davis, is unique to Shepp's Impulse catalog, and really helps bolster the rhythm section and strengthen the overall sound. The fact that two lengthy tracks, "New Africa" and "Bakai," have been added to the CD reissue makes "The Way Ahead" truly way ahead.

The Shepp To Get!
As an earlier review states, Shepp tended to have some dead spots on his earlier releases. This on cooks from start to finish (which includes two great tracks from his "Kwanza" lp). The addition of piano makes this set his most accessable impulse cd. The piano reinforces the feeling of the blues which as always been present with Shepp, but here there is no denying it. HIghlights include "Frnkenstein" and "Bakai."

What a shame that it can only get five stars!
Sad world we live in, only two previous reviews for this classic Shepp CD. Ah, well, more's the pity for the uninitiated. At least the reviews were positive, as you can tell this one will definitely be. If you're in the mood for some challenging Free Jazz, Avant-Garde, Improvisational Music, whatever label you'd like to hang on it- Look No Further! This is a wonderful place to start. With the following personnel: Dave Burrell,Ron Carter, Beaver Harris,Jimmy Owens,Charles Davis, Grachan Moncur III,Walter Booker,Walter Davis, Jr., and Roy Haynes, Mr. Archie Shepp created a small masterpiece with this outstanding set of songs! Buy it, put it on, and FEEL IT!