Abbey Radar and David Liebman: Inner Voices

Abbey Rader is a percussionist who uses his drum kit as a point of departure, a sort of launching pad in his free form improvisations. Seeking unfettered dialogues, for this session he has recruited saxophonist David Liebman. Inner Voices is advanced and satisfying, primarily because of Liebman’s immense capacity and his proclivity towards free exploration, having been beyond those borders on more than a number of occasions.

The tracks range from the contemplative to boundaryless improvisation that recalls earlier manifestations of the jazz avant garde. Liebs and Rader do indeed achieve a dialogue, though Rader’s work doesn’t bear the weight of repeated listens-Liebman’s does, so the leader chose his partner wisely here.

Originally Published April 1, 1998