written off mostly as a gimmick for playing multiple saxes at the same time, Kirk nonetheless made a string of near classic albums in multiple styles, from hard/post avant-bop (Rip, Rig & Panic) to soul/funk grooves (Now Please Don't You Cry, Beautiful Edith) before finding his stride as a composer on The Inflated Tear. easygoing, deeply bluesy and a bit sad, these fantastically original compositions showcase the band's smooth playing and Kirk's unique harmonies. there are some riotous tunes here as well, but my favorite tracks are the slower paced cuts, like opener Black & Crazy Blues, Fingers in the Wind, and especially the killer title track. for fans of Mingus and Pharaoh.

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