W.S.Q. (album)


W.S.Q. is a 1980 album by the jazz group the World Saxophone Quartet released on the Italian Black Saint label. The album features performances and compositions by Hamiet Bluiett, Julius Hemphill, Oliver Lake and David Murray.
The album was identified by Chris Kelsey in his Allmusic essay "Free Jazz: A Subjective History" as one of the 20 Essential Free Jazz Albums.

Reception

The AllMusic review by Scott Yanow awarded the album 4 stars, stating, "There is plenty of variety to the third album by the unique World Saxophone Quartet. The music ranges from nearly free improvisations to the four-part "Suite Music," which was almost completely written out. Rather than being a screamfest for the four innovative saxophonists, this is a well constructed and sometimes surprisingly accessible program.".

Track listing

  1. "Sundance" - 2:38
  2. "Plainsong" - 4:19
  3. "Connections" - 8:06
  4. "W.S.Q." - 5:15
  5. "Pillars Latino" - 5:19
  6. "Suite Music: The Key/Ballad for Eddie Jefferson/Pam-Maw/Hattie Wall" - 5:24
  7. "Sound Light" - 5:35
  8. "Fast Life" - 2:59

    Personnel