SOUL IN THE HORN

Description

The infamous Soul In The Horn by Al Hirt is inextricably linked to the digging tradition. Originally released in 1967, the album has been in high demand for over 30 years, entirely thanks to the majestic soul-jazz fire of "Harlem Hendoo." And it's such a good, vital, timeless song that it will always overshadow everything happening nearby. This single track alone is worth the price of admission. However, it would be a mistake to consider this record as just a simple tracker, loaded with dope samples for adventurous beatmakers. Certainly the funkiest record by Al Hirt. Thanks to composer Paul Griffin and arranger Teacho Wiltshire, Hirt became unusually free and groovy throughout. It resembles more of an obscure funk record from the KPM library than the easy listening for which Al was known. A Louisiana trumpeter and bandleader who made "Java" by Allen Toussaint famous, Al Hirt was also known for his TV themes, Dixieland, Swing, and for being a minority owner of the New Orleans Saints. Unlike all other Al Hirt records — and despite most "diggers" claiming otherwise — this gem is truly hard to find "in the wild."