The Ancestors

The Ancestors is an album by Tim Berne and which was released on the Italian-based Soul Note label in 1983. It features three lengthy tracks which, typical of Berne, are structured in suite-like sections. The music is performed by the Tim Berne Sextet which consisted of Berne, trumpeter Herb Robertson, trombonist Ray Anderson, saxophonist Mack Goldsbury, bassist Ed Schuller and drummer Paul Motian.

Reception
The Penguin Guide to Jazz said "The Ancestors was a first sign that Berne was willing to slow down, look about him and take stock. ...it's a measured authoritative set, rhythmically coherent ".

Track listing

 * 1) "Sirius B" (Berne) - 10:46
 * 2) "Shirley's Song - Part 1" (Berne) - 12:46
 * 3) "Shirley's Song - Part 2 / San Antonio / The Ancestors" (Berne) - 21:05

Personnel

 * Tim Berne: alto saxophone
 * Herb Robertson: trumpet, cornet & flugelhorn
 * Ray Anderson: trombone & tuba
 * Mack Goldsbury: tenor & soprano saxophone
 * Ed Schuller: acoustic bass
 * Paul Motian: drums & percussion

Releases

 * 1983 - Soul Note (Italy), SN 1061 (LP)
 * 1991 - Soul Note (Italy), 121061-1 (LP)
 * 1991 - Soul Note (Italy), 121061-2 (CD)
 * 1991 - Soul Note (Italy), 121061-4 (CT)