Reception
The album was met with mixed reviews. Allmusic's Thom Jurek awarded the album 4 stars, saying that ultimately, the album "is a glorious reunion album, one that delights as it provokes." Others have commented that the return of Jarman solidifies that "the AEC is a band to contend with." Jazz Word's Ken Waxman had other opinions, saying "the overriding feel of the session is so reductionist that the listener may feel as if he has wondered into a microtonal recital". NPR's Whiteman said both albums have "more filler than cafeteria meatloaf."
Most reviews comment that the absence of Lester Bowie is obvious. Review John Chacona of One Final note comments that "there were moments where I expected to hear a "blat" delivered with his perfect comic timing." The Penguin Guide to Jazz also mentions "an eerie moment" when "somebody plays something which sounds uncannily like a Lester Bowie break." All About Jazz reviewer Mark Corrotto says that Jarman's return "doesn't substitute for Bowie's absence, it merely aims the music in different directions" even though NPR's Whiteman says Jarman's return "makes the band seem like the real deal."
| Professional ratings | |
|---|---|
| Review scores | |
| Source | Rating |
| Allmusic | |
| Penguin Guide to Jazz | |
Read more about this topic: The Meeting (Art Ensemble Of Chicago Album)
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