Personnel: John Wolf Brennan (melodica, piano); Alex Cline (drums, percussion); Tscho Theissing (violin); John Voirol (soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone, synthesizer).
Liner Note Authors: John Wolf Brennan; Alex Cline; Tscho Theissing; Bert Noglik.
Pianist John Wolf Brennan and his quintet's music is adventurous and often quite dissonant but it is also quirky, episodic, witty in spots and full of variety. The title cut, "Shooting Stars & Traffic Lights," has violinist Tscho Theissing playing a sweet classical melody that is soon overrun but not completely defeated by other sounds and ideas. "Ognatango" is an eccentric tango, and other pieces range from exuberant to somber, brief sound explorations to more highly developed interplay. Recorded in 1993, these intriguing performances have not dated in the least. Violinist Theissing is a major find, saxophonist John Voirol displays versatility, and Brennan acts as a genial host and conductor for the consistently surprising events. Highly recommended. [Leo re-released this album on CD in 2006.] ~ Scott Yanow
