Prince Lasha Quintet Featuring Sonny Simmons - The Cry!

    Prince Lasha Quintet Featuring Sonny Simmons ‎– The Cry!

    19 Mar

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    Label: Contemporary Records ‎– S7610
    Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo, Black Labels
    Country: US
    Released: 1963
    Genre: Jazz
    Style: Modal, Contemporary Jazz, Post-Bop

    Opening with a plucked bass line from Mark Proctor in the right channel builds the anticipation of the second bass following the line only an octave deeper played by Gary Peacock in the left channel. Congo Call has its roots firmly with African tribal rhythms. While the alto sax of Sonny Simmons and flute of Prince Lasha provide the chorus melody to set the mood for the album to come.

    Having two bass players lays the foundation for this record making it quite unique. Also, the flute and sax interplay work flawlessly. Gene Stone on drums does a wonderful job setting the mood and providing a clock like rhythm.

    Bojangles sees Simmons take lead. Simmons seems to have a strong affinity to Bird. With his tone being very melodic to sometimes bordering on quite chaotic. The tune is upbeat and a toe tapper.

    On Green And Gold, Lasha shines. Providing a wide colour palette. Also, the two basses playing off each other seems to blend so beautifully. I’m amazed how they get it to work so well.

    Ghost Of The Past is a tribute to the past greats like Bird, Chu Berry, Clifford Brown, Ritchie Powell and Charlie Christian. The whole band playing an odd time, but quite hypnotic in a way that they seem to be communicating with the greats of the past.

    Red’s Mood sees Simmons channeling Ornette Coleman. While the band seem to play free but based on the blues. The two bass solo that leads into the drum solo is a treat and opens the pathway for the drums.

    Juanita is Lasha’s mother. She was his inspiration, and this is dedicated to her. The drums have a Latin feel and groove, paying homage to Charles Mingus. Lasha’s solo is sublime. Weaving in and out of the groove. The tonality of Simmons’ sax and Lasha sound blend seamlessly.

    Lost Generation represents the generation of the time. Feeling lost with all the “vile activities” happening in the early 60’s. Simmons takes hold at the beginning while the mood is dark and aggressive. The rhythm section presents drive and authority making the track theirs through the mid-section. Simmons takes the track home.

    A.Y. (affectionately yours) is upbeat and provides hope. There’s a feeling of love and humanity through this track.

    All in all, this is wonderful post-bop album and is a favourite.  The entire album is available on YouTube for your music pleasure.

    Track listing

    A1           Congo Call           5:02
    A2           Bojangles            7:00
    A3           Green And Gold 4:52
    A4           Ghost Of The Past            4:49
    B1           Red’s Mood        5:04
    B2           Juanita  5:32
    B3           Lost Generation 5:15
    B4           A. Y.       4:46

     

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