I’ve been very slow to explore the work of Pharoah Sanders in depth. But as I’ve been focusing my listening and explorations into the late 60’s and beyond, Sander’s work becomes vital and is a big part of the spiritual movement, which I love. So, I have started to dive into the vast work he put out. I’ve been listening to his Impulse work first and foremost and ”Karma” is definitely a high point. It truly epitomizes spiritual jazz, with it’s chanting and meditative nature. The percussion is a big part of the sound and it really pushes the music forward. Sander’s playing is both lyrical and also has that familiar propulsive edge, which makes for a great combination, and a look into his genius. He truly was a top player. A legend.
The band consists of Sanders on tenor, Julius Watkins on french horn, James Spaulding on flute, Lonnie Liston Smith on piano, Reggie Workman, Ron Carter and Richard Davis on double bass, Fred Waits and William Hart on drums, Leon Thomas on vocal and percussion and Nathaniel Bettis on percussion. Some of them play on only one of the two tunes.
This album makes one feel hope for mankind and a fighting spirit to do what’s right.
I will continue my explorations into Sanders work. I have a handful of titles though that I really enjoy and will try and find as soon as possible.
