Guitarist
Dave Stryker
recorded a string of albums for
Steeplechase
throughout the 1990s. This rewarding session kicks off his second decade with the Danish label. Like many of
Stryker
's previous outings,
Changing Times
features his regular partner
Steve Slagle
on alto sax, along with
Bill Moring
on bass,
Tim Horner
on drums, and
Manolo Badrena
on percussion. As the title suggests, there's an emphasis on odd or shifting time signatures. The multi-metric
waltz
"Different Worlds,"
the grooving 7/4
"Circular Scene,"
and the brisk 5/4 piece
"Big Mouth"
are among the highlights.
's imaginative reading of
"Julia,"
by
John Lennon
, is the one non-original cut.
Slagle
contributes the best track:
"Invocation,"
inspired by
the Dalai Lama
, begins with a soaring rubato passage and then breaks into a beautiful harmonized line over an urgent 12/8 tempo.
also penned the closing rhythm changes,
"Rhythm Method."
These two
compositions feature some of
's very best playing. ~ David R. Adler