Scott Yanow in his review for Allmusic stated, "One of the most exciting new jazz big bands of the period, Ellis' ensemble became notorious for its ability to play coherently in odd time signatures... Ellis enjoyed utilizing unusual combinations of instruments; the instrumentation on this date consists of five trumpets, three trombones, five saxes, piano, three bassists, two drummers and a percussionist... Highly recommended".[3]The Penguin Guide to Jazz said "Ellis manages to combine intellectual stimulation and visceral impact".[4]
Track listing
All compositions by Don Ellis except as indicated
Introduction by Jimmy Lyons - 1:18 Bonus track on CD reissue
"Beat Me Daddy, 7 to the Bar" - 8:24 Bonus track on CD reissue
"New Nine" - 11:18
Recorded at The Monterey Jazz Festival in Monterey, California on September 18, 1966 except for track 5 which was recorded at The Pacific Jazz Festival, Costa Mesa, CA on October 8, 1966. (The CD liner notes incorrectly give the date of the Pacific Jazz Festival performance as October 18.)