A last-minute contribution from a Rifftides reader who identifies himself only as John.
Worked: Don Pullen and the Chief Cliff Singers.
(Sacred Common Ground, a collaboration between the pianist’s avant garde African Brazilian Connection and a Native American vocal group. DR)
Didn’t (at least for me): Louis Armstrong and Leon Thomas.
(Louis Armstrong and Friends, a 1960s album including Thomas, a sort of free jazz yodeler; Ornette Coleman, Miles Davis, Tony Bennett and others in a small choir. The musical direction, sort of, is by Oliver Nelson, who on other occasions exercised control. The phrase “herding cats” has rarely been more appropriate. It’s a bit of a mess, but Armstrong’s warmth and charisma come through the melee. DR)