Of all the albums that the groundbreaking independent label Strata East released in the 1970s, this was arguably the most ambitious and unusual. We are talking a piano summit meeting that brings together a range of players of different schools and generations, from hard bop hero Harold Mabern and Mingus alumnus Hugh Lawson to Strata artists Sonelius Smith and Stanley Cowell, both composers of immense talent. The artists appear in various configurations, using grand piano, Fender Rhodes and synthesiser to create all the textural richness that one would expect had they been joined by horns and a rhythm section. That said, three excellent percussionists and drummers (Mtume, John Lewis and Jimmy Hopps) do supply a zestful beat on occasion. The result is a work that obviously foregrounds the acoustic and electric keyboard, showcasing the strong personality of each artist but it is also the high standard of composition and the imagination with which familiar songs are recast in the new setting that also catches the ear. A highlight is the sumptuous take on ‘Barbara Ann’, a quite gorgeous Webster Lewis tune that is now shorn of its lavish strings and given a vividly meditative solo piano intro before rolling into the familiar Afro-Brazilian groove which is well enhanced by vivid new synthesiser colours.