The Awakening cover

The Awakening

The Pharaohs · 1971

42 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and soul that channels spiritual themes through intricate rhythms and powerful instrumentation.

Why this album works

The Awakening is notable for its innovative sound that prefigured the jazz fusion movement and showcased the band's ability to blend various genres. The album received critical acclaim for its artistic vision, influencing future generations of musicians who sought to merge cultural sounds.
Best for
dynamic journey with spiritual themes wave-like pacing with peaks engaging rhythms for attentive listening
Context
Released in 1971, The Awakening was The Pharaohs' debut album, marking their entry into the jazz scene. At this time, the group was exploring a unique blend of jazz with African influences, setting them apart in a period dominated by traditional jazz forms.
Stylistic neighbors
Sun Ra· Charles Mingus· Miles Davis

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Damballa Standout 8:03
  • 2 Ibo 3:50
  • 3 Tracks of My Tears 4:07
  • 4 Black Enuff 2:57
  • 5 Somebody’s Been Sleeping 4:14
  • 6 Freedom Road Standout 5:56
  • 7 Great House Standout 13:31

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata