This dvd of a concert featuring reedest/leader Vinny Golia and his New Music Orchestra re-affirms my belief that free and avant garde music is better seen than just heard. The 2014 concert is conducted by both Golia and Lownstein, with a large ensemble of brass, strings, woodwinds, voice and percussion waxing and waning through the two sets.
Moody and spacious chords hover along with loose swing for soloists like Gavin Templeton/as, Stefan Kac/tb and Golia on “(Large Ensemble Version” while voices and sci fi nuances mix on “Show of Force” Lurking film noir colors meld on “Lost and Found” and turbulent waters create white caps for Golia and oboe player Kathy Pisar on “Would You Like Help…” before an “Encore” directs the spontandeously free improvisations. Sparks definitely fly around on this night in LA.