This double CD was recorded at two Munich concerts in March 1980, and is the high point of the Art Ensemble’s ECM catalog. The first disc begins with percussion and bass, calling the assembled to order, then journeys through two lengthy, multi-part suites (“Urban Magic” and “Sun Precondition Two/Theme for Sco”). On the second disc, they play shorter, discrete tunes, including a beautiful version of Bowie’s ballad “New York is Full of Lonely People” and a gentle, waltzing take on Mitchell’s “Peter and Judith.”

– Phil Freeman