Monday, August 1, 2011

The Elements

From the monumental record The Elements, the experimental/ progressive/ avant atmosphere allows for the fluidity and mastership of sound in rhythm that the great Joe Henderson gives us. On Air, is such a balanced track that draws from the virtuous styles and strict understanding of the metaphysical relationship sound has to the chemistry of the room. The balanced notation of conscious thought as portrayed through a variety of instruments, allows listeners to become trapped in a world created by the insidiously effervescent minds of not only Mr. Henderson, but his current "muse-ical" interest, Alice Coltrane.


The Line Up:

Kenneth Nash (spoken vocals, wood flute, congas, sakara drum, bells, gongs, percussion); Michael White (violin); Charlie Haden (bass); Ndugu Chancler (drums); Baba Daru Oshun (tabla, percussion). Recorded at Village Recorders, Los Angeles, California from October 15-17, 1973. Originally released on Milstone (9053).