Dewey Redman, Ear of the Behearer (side A)

1973's Ear of the Behearer groups big names Redman, Ted Daniel, and Sirone with lesser-known players Jane Robertson (cello) and Eddie Moore + Danny Johnson (drums and percussion).  The big names are obviously the stars here, though Robertson's cello is unusual and interesting.  Stylistically, Ear of the Behearer reflects a cross-section of trends in avant-jazz in the early-70s.  It starts with blaring energy-jazz, before everything from Marion Brown's introspection to the Art Ensemble of Chicago's cerebral structures make appearances.  Everything is executed well, and Redman's compositions continue to pay bits of homage to Ornette's tonal ideas, even as the arrangements and styles vary wildly.  The record sounds a bit murky in stereo (I don't have a way to listen to the original quad mixes), and I often wish Sirone were louder.  The front cover photo, which renders Redman largely in silhouette looks great, and the font matches it nicely—it hints at referencing older jazz covers while still looking modern.