A collection of late-Sixties tracks by the revered saxophonist and composer Archie Shepp, Kwanza is as much a celebration of all things African and African-American as the holiday of the same name. This uncompromising and unique recording covers a strikingly broad range, from down-home funk to ferocious, unfettered free improvisation.
Collective Musicians: Archie Shepp (Soprano Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Vocals), Andy Bey (Piano), Dave Burrell (Organ, Piano), Joe Chambers (Drums), Beaver Harris (Drums), Jimmy Owens (Trumpet), Cecil Payne (Baritone Saxophone), Woody Shaw (Trumpet), James Spaulding (Alto Saxophone), Leon Thomas (Vocals), Cedar Walton (Piano), Wilbur Ware (Bass), Matthew Gee (Trombone), Robin Kenyatta (Flute), Grachan Moncur III (Trombone), Doris Troy (Vocals), Walter Booker (Bass), Tasha Thomas (Vocals), Martin Banks (Trumpet), Bert Payne (Guitar), Bernard "Pretty" Purdie (Drums), Wally Richardson (Guitar), Albert Winston (Bass), Clarence Sharpe (Alto Saxophone), Beaver Bushnell (Bass), Charles Davis (Baritone Saxophone)
5 Tracks. Recorded September 1968 and February and August 1969 in New York City.