Sacred Island cover

Sacred Island

Taj Mahal · 1998

45 min · 8 tracks · R&B

A vibrant fusion of blues, calypso, and Hawaiian influences celebrating cultural connections and musical heritage.

Why this album works

The album is significant for its rich mix of genres that reflect Mahal's commitment to cultural diversity in music. 'Sacred Island' received critical acclaim, notably from publications like 'JazzTimes' which praised its innovative sound and cultural relevance, helping to broaden the appeal of traditional Hawaiian music within contemporary contexts.
Best for
steady rhythmic journey throughout celebratory vibes for gatherings warm background for relaxation
Context
By the time 'Sacred Island' was released in 1998, Taj Mahal had already established himself as a pioneering figure in the blues genre, blending various styles throughout his career. This album came after several successful projects and showcased his continued exploration of world music, specifically Hawaiian influences, following his 1997 album 'Dancing with the Blues'.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Calypsonians 6:32
  • 2 Coconut Man Standout 7:34
  • 3 Sacred Island (Moku La'a) Standout 5:15
  • 4 Betty And Dupree 6:02
  • 5 The New Hula Blues 4:47
  • 6 No Na Mamo Standout 4:34
  • 7 Mailbox Blues 3:33
  • 8 Kanikapila 7:01

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata