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The Ensemble Al-Salaam

The Sojourner

P-Vine

PLP-6950

LP Black $45
  • First time on vinyl

Description

Originally released in 1974 on pioneering jazz label Strata-East, ‘The Sojourner’ by the incredible Ensemble al-Salaam would become one of the label’s most sought-after records. A highlight of the spiritual jazz movement, the record sees a band at the height of their powers, perfectly in sync as they express their spirituality through one ethereal groove after another. Album opener “Music is Nothing But a Prayer” sets the tone for the album, as gentle piano arpeggios, warm flute improvisations, and spacy guitar combine with the haunting vocals of Beatrice Parker to create a sonic atmosphere which seems to wash over you with every passing beat. The song picks up as a repeating bass riff emerges, with blaring saxophone improvisations contrasting with Parker’s clear vocals – yet nothing ever clashes. In comparison to the enveloping avant-jazz of “Music is Nothing But a Prayer”, “Malika” takes inspiration...

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Preview Tracklist

  • 1 Music Is Nothing But A Prayer
  • 2 Ecstasy
  • 3 The Sojourner
  • 4 Circles
  • 5 Trace Of Trane
  • 6 Vibration Love Call
  • 7 Malika
  • 8 Optimystical
  • 9 Peace