Natural Black Inventions: Root Strata cover

Natural Black Inventions: Root Strata

Rahsaan Roland Kirk · 1971

37 min · 13 tracks · swing · hard bop

A vibrant fusion of jazz, blues, and avant-garde elements that defy conventional categorization.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant explorations of sound
  • short bursts of creativity
  • playful and unpredictable transitions
  • intense emotional expressions
  • engaging rhythms for active listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking long, cohesive narratives
  • prefer straightforward musical structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1971, 'Natural Black Inventions: Root Strata' was Rahsaan Roland Kirk's fourth album and showcased his distinct artistry following a series of innovative releases. At this point, Kirk was already recognized for his unique ability to play multiple instruments simultaneously and was gaining prominence within the jazz community for his eclectic compositions.
Stylistic neighbors
Charles Mingus· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Something for Trane That Trane Could Have Said 3:05
  • 2 Island Cry 3:52
  • 3 Runnin’ From the Trash 2:12
  • 4 Day Dream 3:40
  • 5 The Ragman and the Junkman Ran From the Businessman They Laughed and He Cried 3:02
  • 6 Breath-A-Thon 1:55
  • 7 Rahsaanica 3:40
  • 8 Raped Voices 1:54
  • 9 Haunted Feelings 2:25
  • 10 Prelude Back Home 3:44
  • 11 Dance of the Lobes 2:05
  • 12 Harder & Harder Spiritual 2:32
  • 13 Black Root 3:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata