2005-02-06
Sixty-seven year-old Alice Coltrane (widow of the legendary John) is joined by sons Ravi and Oran and other great names in jazz – Charlie Haden, Jack DeJohnette and Jeff “Tain” Waits – in this set, Alice’s first major recording in over 20 years.She’s chosen three
main themes to express her art – Indian/Hindu structures (#1, #4, #11);
traditional spiritual/gospel foundations (#2, #5, #6); and homages to
her departed husband (#7, #8, #9). The results are inspiring, sometimes
challenging, but mostly rewarding. I’m drawn more to her piano work
than the Wurlitzer or synthesizer numbers, but her talent shines in them
all. (And thanks to a great supporting cast, too: Check out DeJohnette’s
drum solo in “Leo.”)
Just as we’ve missed her husband, we’ve missed Alice, too. It is good – and important – to have her back.
Various Artists
Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars
SAXOPHONE SUMMIT-(Michael Brecker, Dave Liebman and Joe Lovano)
SAXOPHONE SUMMIT
THE SOULJAZZ ORCHESTRA
Rising Sun
LAVAY SMITH & HER RED HOT SKILLET LICKERS
MISS SMITH TO YOU
VARIOUS
Rumble In the Great Lakes (Best of the Detroit Jazz Fest 2007)
ALICIA MENNINGA
Renewal
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