"Let My People Go" is a captivating collaboration between the legendary saxophonist Archie Shepp and the virtuoso pianist Jason Moran, released on February 5, 2021, under the Archieball label. This album is a testament to the enduring power of jazz and its ability to evolve and inspire. Spanning a diverse range of styles from free jazz and hard bop to avant-garde, this collection of twelve tracks offers a rich and immersive experience.
The album opens with the haunting "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child," setting a contemplative tone that carries through to the more upbeat and intricate pieces like "Isfahan" and "Jitterbug Waltz." Shepp's raw, expressive saxophone work is perfectly complemented by Moran's dynamic and innovative piano playing, creating a dialogue that is both intense and intimate. Tracks like "Go Down Moses" and "He Cares" showcase their ability to breathe new life into traditional material, infusing it with a fresh and contemporary energy.
"Let My People Go" is not just a showcase of technical prowess but also a deeply spiritual and political statement. The title track, with its roots in gospel and freedom songs, underscores the album's themes of liberation and resilience. The bonus tracks, including "Ujama" and "Slow Drag," add further depth and variety, demonstrating the duo's versatility and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz.
With a runtime of over an hour and thirty-four minutes, this album is a journey through the soulful and the sophisticated, the traditional and the avant-garde. It's a celebration of jazz's rich heritage and its boundless potential for reinvention. Whether you're a longtime fan of Archie Shepp or a newcomer to his work, "Let My People Go" is an essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.
Vinylscout