Herbie Mann's "Gagaku & Beyond," released on January 1, 1976, under Rhino Atlantic, is a captivating fusion of jazz with traditional Japanese Gagaku music. This album seamlessly blends Latin jazz, Brazilian jazz, bossa nova, soul jazz, jazz funk, and cool jazz, creating a unique and enchanting soundscape. The tracklist includes "Shomyo (Monk's Chant)," "Mauve over Blues," "Kurodabushi (Sake Drinking Song)," "Etenraku," and "Gagaku and Beyond," each offering a distinct flavor that showcases Mann's versatility and innovative spirit. With a duration of 48 minutes, this album is a testament to Herbie Mann's ability to cross cultural boundaries and create music that resonates with a wide audience.