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.
Ruby is one of those few people who could solo with a pipe organ, who could improvise with such an unusual instrumental background. It requires a very special ability - flexibility, ingenuity, and invention. Ruby, of course, is his own man. Like his idol, Louis Armstrong, he commands the center of attention, even if the background is something as odd as a theatre organ. The tonal colors of a pipe organ are its great glory. Above all, I'm stimulated by being able to orchestrate on the spot. And once you launch into a bright swinging tempo with the instrument sounding perhaps a beat behind the fingers, the sensation is like leading a herd of galloping elephants. You don't dare look back.
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.