Fred Anderson & Hamid Drake – From The River To The Ocean (2LP Clear with Forest Green & Hi-Melt Gold)

Tenor saxophonist Fred Anderson and drummer Hamid Drake had the closest of relationships, as close as a father and son might have. Their communication was at a higher level musically and emotionally. The music on this album reflects not only their masterful musical skills, but a conversation in music that is exceptionally powerful and unique. For From the River to the Ocean, they assembled a band consisting of fellow Chicagoans to record the most relaxed, perfectly balanced album they made together. It may seem hyperbolic to call From the River to the Ocean Fred Anderson?s greatest album, but the empathy and cohesiveness of the ensemble, coupled with the saxophonist?s brilliant, searching improvisations, makes it a powerful contender.