Deadstock copy in the shrink (removed it of course) bought directly from the label. Recorded in 1981 and released 1983. Led by Dwight James, a drummer from Philadelphia and member of Sounds of Liberation. He is joined here by two outstanding members of that ensemble, Byard Lancaster and Khan Jamal. This is an album that I hadn’t heard of before, until a member of the IG jazz vinyl community made me aware of it, and that Cadence still sold deadstock copies of this title. So thanks so much Donovan!
A fantastic album that draws from the 70’s jazz movement and it’s often used mix of spiritual and post-bop. Dig James’ drumming a lot. And as a drummer myself I’m very interested in exploring more of his work. Vibraphonist Khan Jamal was a lovely player. Need more stuff of his into the collection for sure. He really excels on this album. Lancaster plays only on the opening tune and his contribution is outstanding as usual. Just wished he played on every tune. The other cats are top as well. Can’t remember that I’ve heard them before though. We have Middie Middleton on tenor, Clarence Bradley on trumpet and Howard Cooper on bass.
I really enjoy the sound on this one, altough being recorded in the 80’s (albeit the early 80’s) it has a very natural sound, earthy and detailed and not overly produced. It contains only originals, with James, Jamal and Cooper all contributing.