AMG Review of Matador of 1st & 1st

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

On this unusual set, Oliver Lake is heard solo, playing alto and a bit of soprano and flute, reciting poetry, telling stories, and covering a lot of topics in his philosophical and occasionally witty monologues. Whether it be the lack of black music on MTV, the constantly evolving English language, the difficulties of being Superman, the value of George Clinton, or humorous looks at his trips abroad, Lake shows that not only is he a talented musician but a first-rate commentator too. This set is certainly for selective tastes but listeners with an interest in both jazz and spoken word monologues will find much to savor here.