DESCRIPTION
Available on Vinyl LP with OBI strip.
This previously unreleased album by the Horace Tapscott Quintet was unearthed from master tapes in the Flying Dutchman archives. Recorded in 1969, it was intended to be a follow-up album to the classic The Giant Is Awakened, which was released that same year.
The iconic pianist and composer Horace Tapscott was one of the most unique and important figures in LA’s jazz world. This lost recording was produced by Bob Thiele, one of the pivotal behind-the-scenes figures in jazz, known for working with legends like Quincy Jones, John Coltrane, Della Reese, Gil Scott-Heron, and many more. His name can be seen on some of the best Impulse! releases and those on his own Flying Dutchman imprint, founded in 1969.
Joining Horace on this three-track, deep, heavy, avant-garde session are the same stellar musicians featured on The Giant Is Awakened: Arthur Blythe on Alto Sax, Everett Brown Jr. on Drums, and David Bryant and Walter Savage Jr. on Bass. Kicking things off, World Peace starts with a baroque-esque melody, leading into a powerful eruption of sound, before circling back to the peaceful opening. Your Child, the crown jewel of the album, blends modal jazz with free jazz elements, creating a soulful, deep vibe. For Fats, with its bowed bass and piano intro, takes you on a journey—shifting from dark, stormy melodies to a driving, energized progression.
After recording this album, Horace became wary of the music industry, distancing himself from mainstream labels. He focused on recording for independent labels like UGMAA, Interplay Records, and Nimbus West Records. Horace also formed The Pan-Afrikan People’s Arkestra, reintroducing pan-African roots into jazz. His performances and recordings were pivotal in promoting the art form.
Thankfully, this long-hidden session, featuring some of jazz’s finest pioneers, has now been preserved and is ready to be heard by a new generation.
Featuring brand-new artwork by the illustrious artist/designer/musician Raimund Wong (Total Refreshment / Floating World Pictures).
TRACKLIST
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World Peace
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Your Child
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For Fats