Search - Pharoah Sanders :: Heart Is a Melody

Blissful blend of mainstream jazz, free and world musics

09/04/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This 1982 session, live from Keystone Korner in San Francisco, is my personal favorite from Pharoah Sanders' sizeable discography. In the company of longtime pianist William Henderson, bassist John Heard and drummer Idris Muhammad, Sanders navigates a collection of jazz standards and original material with power and aplomb. The grand highlight is a 22-minute rendition of John Coltrane's "Ole" that peels the roof off the nightclub. Pharoah's solo exploration is the full embodiment of intensity. Every time you think he can't possibly blow any wilder, he shovels more coals onto the fire. Tadd Dameron's "On A Misty Night" and Coltrane's "Naima" receive tasteful interpretations, and a beautiful take on the old chestnut "Rise and Shine" shows that Sanders can still swing with the best. On the more exotic side is the fun-filled "Goin' To Africa", a hoot of a tune inspired by West African highlife music which features Sanders' gruff, boisterous vocals in interplay with the audience. "Heart Is A Melody Of Time" is a new look at Pharoah's classic "The Creator Has A Master Plan". Here the vocal section delivered so passionately by Leon Thomas on "The Creator..." is replaced by a new melody sung by a choir that includes Andy Bey. A nice balance of straight-ahead jazz blowing, world beats and the chaotic musical freedom that Sanders is (in)famous for. Highly recommended."

Wonderful

P. Beers | amsterdam holland | 01/11/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"this album from pharoah is wonderful, starting with a live version of 'ole' and then changing into different moods, he really does it again.

Pharoah sanders is indeed a living legend, even after so many years his playing is still refreshing and bursting with energy."

Ole is a must

Stephen | Virginia Beach, VA USA | 11/02/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ole is essential Pharoah. The band really kicks this one up for over 20 minutes. Pharoah takes two soaring solos punctuate by yelling that seems impossible given the fact that his is playing tremendous solos. Goin To Africa is another highlight and even the vocal title track works quite well. Even without the awesome Ole, this would be a solid set of music."