Horace Tapscott - The Call
ORDER LIMITED TO ONE ITEM PER CUSTOMER
Horace Tapscott - Piano, Conductor [click here to see more vinyl featuring Horace Tapscott]
Jesse Sharps – Soprano, Tenor, Bamboo Flute, Bandleader
Linda Hill – Piano
Adele Sebastian - Vocal, Flute
Lester Robertson – Trombone
David Bryant – Bass
Everett Brown Jr. – Drums
Herbert Callies – Alto Clarinet
James Andrews – Tenor, Bass Clarinet
Michael Session – Alto
Kafi Larry Roberts – Flute, Soprano
Archie Johnson – Trombone
Red Callendar – Tuba, Bass
William Madison – Percussion, Drums
Louis Spears – Cello, Bass
Kamonta Lawrence Polk – Bass
1 LP, standard sleeve
Limited edition
Original analog Master tape : YES
Heavy Press : 180g
Record color : black
Speed : 33 RPM
Size : 12'’
Stereo
Studio
Record Press : unspecified
Label : Pure Pleasure Records
Original Label : Nimbus West
Recorded in Los Angeles on April 8th 1978
Produced by Tom Albach & Horace Tapscott
Remastered by Horace Tapscott
Originally released in 1978
Tracks :
Side A:
1 The Call
2 Quagmire Manor at Five A.M.
Side B:
1 Nakatini Suite
2 Peyote Song No. III
Reviews :
“When pianist Horace Tapscott emerged in the Central Avenue jazz scene in Los Angeles, he played with Don Cherry, Eric Dolphy and Billy Higgins. Part of his musical vision was to engage in collaborative and socio-political contexts. This led to the formation of a variety of cooperative large ensemble groups that reached a zenith with the creation of the Pan African Peoples Arkestra. Due to unfavorable conditions in South Los Angeles, the “Arkestra” performed in public parks and churches. Under Tapscott’s leadership, dozens of local musicians bonded for a decidedly ethnic-centered exploration that included politics and spirituality. These artists pursued a vision that distilled truth in art over commercialism. Also, the boundaries of the jazz genre were expanded and redefined. Nimbus West Records was the home label.
Pure Pleasure Records has released a pair (Flight 17, The Call) of 1978 Pan African Peoples Arkestra recordings, re-mastered to 180-gram vinyl. With a gifted, eclectic group of top-notch musicians, this “people’s orchestra” creates a unique vision of global jazz.
The Call is equally complex and passionate. Side A begins with the title cut. It swings as Tapscott glides across the piano keys in an extended solo. He is followed by an alto saxophone while the polyrhythmic orchestra drives the music. It is reminiscent of bebop with free-flowing expression. A trombone run adds more flavor to this big band fest. In a change of pace, “Quagmire Manor At Five A.M.” features nimble “cool jazz” vocals by Adele Sebastian. The overall orchestration varies in style and Tapscott executes a high-voltage piano run with potent chords and frenetic notation. The explosive chemistry of the ensemble is on full display. A reprise of the sassy intro brings the number to a close. Each song is unique and translated differently. “Nakatini Suite” displays numerous tempo shifts and relaxed grooves, including a vibrant piano solo (which has a reference to the movie theme from “Laura”). The finale (“Peyote Song III”) is a multi-faceted performance with strings, and propulsive drumming. Again, the alto saxophone provides mysterious imagery and the rhythm section is tight and flawless. Tapscott slides in with his sweeping chords. The final interlude (like the opening) has a slowed-down cinematic aesthetic.” Robbie Gerson, Audiophile Audition, October 2021
“The second LP by Horace Tapscott's Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra (a 16-piece trumpet-less big band) has four lengthy selections; three originals by bandmembers plus Cal Massey's "Nakatini Suite." Best-known among the sidemen are veteran Red Callender (doubling on tuba and bass) and the powerful altoist Michael Session. Many of the other players (including the pianist-leader) have some space to stretch out and the ensembles (with their unusual voicings and free spots) are quite colorful.” AllMusic Review by Scott Yanow
Ratings :
AllMusic : 4 / 5 ; Discogs : 4.77 / 5 ; Audiophile Audition : 4.5 / 5