This was the debut of a brand new band formed by drummer/pianist/composer Jack DeJohnette and it reflected his multi-direction approach to the music. This was the first band that DeJohnette led that garnered not only recognition from the fans but by the critics as well. Many of DeJohnette's earlier attempts at bandleading seemed too scattered and had no unifying concepts. This band, although eclectic did have a sense of direction and purpose. It is multi-dimensional and reflects many concepts but is held together and cohesive. The band is called "Special Edition" and this recording is the first and perhaps the best. The two horns are tenor saxophonist/bass clarinetist, David Murray and on alto saxophone, one of the great individual voices was ("Black Arthur") Arthur Blythe. The versatile and flexible bassist is Peter Warren. DeJohnette's drums prod and shape the music and three of his unique compositions are heard. The other two tunes of the five on this disc are by John Coltrane and they are the beautiful "Central Park West" and the exotic "India". All in all, "Special Edition" was a great band and this album which was issued on ECM was one of it's most important statements.

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