This recording is technically a collective effort. However, Gebhard Ullmann wrote and arranged the entire album and is prominently featured on flutes and reeds. The recording’s core features are Ullmann, Andreas Willers, and Nikolaus Schauble, who play guitars and percussion respectively. They are joined by Glen Moore, Trilok Gurtu, on bass, and samples from a children’s choir. The album was recorded early in Ullmann’s career. Ullmann, who is a talented composer, improviser and organizer, focused his efforts on “world music”. It is less adventurous and more traditional than his later albums. Ullmann is known for his knack for arranging catchy melodies. It’s not surprising that the appealingly arranged “Escalate In 15/8”, based on a Charlie Parker lick, was a major jazz disco hit in Germany. Ullmann arranges this piece boldly as his tenor sax wailing the striking melody over a strong rhythm section. Although there is an ambient feel to many tracks, it is the writing that gives it its unique quality. Although the album could be seen as a commercialization attempt of a concept, the band’s pace is more controlled and their sound less intense than those of their later productions. However, the essence of the improvisations are not lost. This album is highly accessible and enjoyable due to its professional production and attention to detail. Allmusic
