Kahil+el'zabar

The double CD features three original recordings from El'Zabar's Ethnic Heritage Ensemble plus remixes from world-renowned producers Charles Webster, Osunlade, Henrik Schwarz, IG Culture (Bugz in the Attic) and more…

Spiritmuse Records proudly presents ‘Kahil El’Zabar’s America the Beautiful’, a tour de force musical testament that speaks directly to the heart, mind and spirit. Kahil El’Zabar composed, arranged and conducted ‘America the Beautiful’ to speak musically about the turbulent issues in America (and the world) today, as well as his hopes and love for a better tomorrow.

Best known for vibrant live concert performances, Kahil El'Zabar's Ritual Trio feature jazz from an African improvised perspective, and the precepts of the Association For The Advancement Of Creative Musicians based in Chicago. This club date at Chi-town's Hot House in the fall of 2000 is released eight years after being recorded. It marks a prior coming of age for El'Zabar, who plays the drum kit almost exclusively (he is featured on the booklet with a giant mbira), and always honors the celebratory aspect of music making…

Innovative multi-percussionist Kahil El'Zabar composes, arranges and conducts an incredible new album. It features masterful performances by the (late, great) Hamiet Bluiett, Corey Wilkes, Tomeka Reid & the James Sanders String Qt. A strong percussion section is complimented by strings and brass, in a powerful blend of spiritual groove, melody and improvisation - an inspired re-imagining of a 'better' way, parallel to the central message of this album. America the Beautiful is Kahil El'Zabar's musical testament to the state of affairs, expressed with love, urgency, hope & spirit.

Kahil El’Zabar’s ‘Spirit Groove’ on Spiritmuse Records is the latest musical inspiration from a spiritual jazz master Kahil El’Zabar, featuring the legendary tenor sax colossus, David Murray. El’Zabar’s and Murray’s collaborative efforts span over 4 decades of exceptional explorations in the varied realms of spiritual jazz. Joining them on this project are 2 extraordinary young talents, Emma Dayhuff on acoustic bass and Justin Dillard on keyboards/organ. ‘Spirit Groove’ is an innovative journey into the core soul of jazz and groove, where all are one in Spirit.

The diminutive but mighty acoustic bassist Malachi Favors was a charter member of the Art Ensemble of Chicago and Kahil El'Zabar's Ritual Trio, and since his passing both groups have suffered. This recording for El'Zabar and his revamped trio including longtime member saxophonist Ari Brown and guest violinist Billy Bang is the first offering with bassist Yosef Ben Israel filling the chair of the late Favors…