Moondog

This disc combines what were originally two separate albums recorded in the late '60s and early '70s. With the larger budget he had to make these recordings, Moondog (born Louis Harden) was able utilize a substantially larger orchestra than he had previously. The pool of musicians were largely classically-based players, but also included such jazz regulars as Hubert Laws (on piccolo) and bass players George Duvivier and Ron Carter. The music ranges from the rhythmically charged ''Stamping Ground'' to the ethereal ''Symphonique #3.'' A number of these pieces are the result of Moondog's ongoing fascination with the overlapping form of the round (which he began composing in the early '50s). While orchestral in scope, there is a folk-like bearing to his overall vision. This is warmly engaging music and a perfect entry point into the musical world of this unique composer.