Aces Back to Back

Bolstered by his impressive box set, Dog Years in the Fourth Ring, the profile of the late Rahsaan Roland Kirk has been significantly elevated. It's about time. Kirk's singular technique (he was capable of blowing multiple horns simultaneously) and ability to be consistently inventive is drawing a new generation of fans.

This new set offers a selection of four Kirk LPs spread out throughout his career. Roland Kirk Left and Right (1968) is a low-key affair with Kirk darting in and out of melodies showing both a light touch and nimble tone thinking. On Rahsaan Rahsaan (1970) Kirk really struts his stuff, mixing and matching styles with abandon and at one point playing the melody of "Lover" on three horns at once. Prepare Thyself to Deal with a Miracle (1973) features Kirk's amazing 21-minute "Saxophone Concerto" while Other Folks Music (1976) is a fast-paced collage of styles and sounds. A set unpredictable, exciting, and pure Rahsaan. --S. Duda