AMG Review of Atlanta Georgia May 5, 1981

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Dexter Gordon was starting to decline when he recorded this live set from 1981, which was released for the first time in 2003. Gordon's solos are sometimes briefer than earlier, with pianist Kirk Lightsey often being in the spotlight during the lengthy performances. However Gordon still retained his distinctive sound and his witty ideas, sounding stronger on the up-tempo pieces than during the overlong lazy ballads. Unfortunately the recording quality is just so-so, with the drums' cymbals ringing a bit too much in spots, but this is still a worthwhile acquisition for Gordon completists.