A Tale of God's Will cover

A Tale of God's Will

Terence Blanchard · 2007

72 min · 13 tracks · opera · hard bop

A haunting orchestral jazz suite that interweaves sorrowful melodies with evocative storytelling about loss and resilience.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its cultural impact as it serves as a musical requiem for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, blending jazz with classical elements. Critically acclaimed, it received a Grammy nomination for Best Jazz Instrumental Album, highlighting Blanchard's ability to merge art with activism. The album's themes resonate deeply within the New Orleans community and beyond, influencing discussions on climate change and urban resilience.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys haunting, reflective moments
Context
In 2007, Terence Blanchard was an established figure in the jazz world, known for his work scoring films and collaborations with legends. 'A Tale of God's Will' marked a significant moment as it was a poignant response to Hurricane Katrina, further solidifying his role as a voice for social change through music. This album followed his previous work 'Flow' and showcased a deep artistic commitment to addressing contemporary issues.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ghost of Congo Square Standout 3:04
  • 2 Levees Standout 8:11
  • 3 Wading Through 6:29
  • 4 Ashé 8:19
  • 5 In Time of Need 7:53
  • 6 Ghost of Betsy 2:09
  • 7 The Water 4:09
  • 8 Mantra Intro 3:22
  • 9 Mantra 9:51
  • 10 Over There 7:45
  • 11 Ghost of 1927 1:40
  • 12 Funeral Dirge Standout 5:54
  • 13 Dear Mom 3:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata