Henry Kaiser

More than 20 years after their initial recording, the trio of Henry Kaiser, Charles K. Noyes, and Sang Won Park reconvened for a second set of Korean-flavored improv. The first track, "Hurum II," was actually recorded in the late '80s and released on Kaiser's Hope You Like Our New Direction, so it serves as a bridge between sessions. After that contemplative beginning, things get more dissonant with clattering percussion and scratchy ajaeng, with Kaiser providing some low-end rumble with his distorted electric guitar. "Derek Bailey Salpuri" is an obvious tribute to the late improviser that sees Kaiser moving to acoustic for some Bailey-style playing. The vocals (provided by guests Ok Joo Moon and Laura So-Yeon Kim) are a beautiful poem that is fortunately translated inside the booklet. The track finishes with Kaiser switching back to electric for a great guitar solo. "Floating Away" is a beautiful vocal piece that features some particularly sublime playing from Kaiser against Park's kayagum. "Candy for Sale" features a Park vocal, while Kaiser turns in some more incredible electric soloing on "Cactus Sinawi." In fact, although some fine interplay and communication occur, it's Kaiser's playing that stands out as he gives some of his finest recorded performances. Some things just get better with time, and it seems that the Invite the Spirit trio is one of those things. ~ Sean Westergaard, All Music Guide