Don Ellis' Orchestra is heard at the peak of its powers on this Columbia LP. "Pussy Wiggle Stomp," a variation on "My dad's better than your dad" but performed in 7/4 time, became the band's theme song, and it has its riotous moments. The 19-and-a-half minute, six-part "Variations for Trumpet" is a major showcase for Ellis, "Scratt and Fluggs" is a brief bit of silliness, and the relatively straightforward "K.C. Blues" features altoist Frank Strozier, John Klemmer on tenor, and keyboardist Pete Robinson. However it is the 17-and-a-half minute "Indian Lady" (a live remake) that really finds the band going crazy.
Ellis, trombonist Glen Ferris, and keyboardist Robinson play humorous solos before tenors John Klemmer and Sam Falzone engage in a long and nutty tradeoff that is often quite hilarious. The many false endings at the end of this performance add to the general atmosphere. This is a classic release.
01. Variations for Trumpet
02. Scratt and Fluggs
03. Pussy Wiggle Stomp
04. K.C. Blues
05. Child of Ecstasy
06. Indian Lady
Don Ellis (trumpet)
Ron Starr (flute, piccolo, clarinet, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone)
Sam Falzone (flute, clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone)
John Magruder (clarinet, bass clarinet, baritone saxophone)
Frank Strozier (clarinet, alto saxophone)
John Klemmer (clarinet, tenor saxophone)
Ira Schulman (alto saxophone)
John Rosenberg, Stewart Blumberg (trumpet, flugelhorn)
Glenn Stuart (trumpet)
Ernie Carlson, Glenn Ferris (trombone)
Don Switzer, Terry Woodson (bass trombone)
Doug Bixby, Roger Bobo (tuba)
Peter Manning Robinson (piano, prepared piano, electric piano, Clavinet)
Mark Stevens (vibraphone, percussion)
Ray Neopolitan (electric bass)
Ralph Humphrey (drums)
Lee Pastora (congas)
Gene Strimling (percussion)
