Pharoah Sanders' 1987 masterpiece, Africa, is a sublime testament to the saxophonist's unwavering artistry. Recorded with a talented quartet comprising John Hicks on piano, Curtis Lundy on bass, and Idris Muhammad on drums, this album showcases Sanders' remarkable ability to craft soulful, searching jazz.
With a duration of 57 minutes, Africa takes the listener on a captivating journey through eight meticulously crafted tracks, including 'You've Got to Have Freedom', 'Naima', 'Origin', 'Speak Low', 'After the Morning', 'Africa', 'Heart to Heart', and 'Duo'. The album's release on the Dutch Timeless label in 1987, and subsequent re-releases in 2008, 2020, and 2022, is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Pharoah Sanders' involvement in the free jazz movement, particularly his work with John Coltrane, laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His collaboration with Alice Coltrane on the album Karma is widely regarded as a masterpiece, and Africa is no exception. This brilliant 80s set finds Sanders in a more understated setting, yet his tenor playing remains blistering and evocative.
Africa is an exemplary representation of Pharoah Sanders' unique blend of free jazz, jazz, and hard bop, making it an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. With its release on Timeless Records, this album has become a staple of the genre, and its influence can still be felt today.
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