Choma (Burn)

Description

Wewantsounds is pleased to reissue the album Choma (Burn) by Harold Land, dating from 1971, recorded in Los Angeles with Bobby Hutcherson as well as Reggie Johnson on bass, Ndugu and Woody Theus on drums, and Bill Henderson and Harold Land Jr. on piano/Fender Rhodes. Together, the musicians create a superb blend of funky and modal jazz that was the hallmark of the Harold Land-Bobby Hutcherson Quintet between 1968 and 72. The album opens with the title track "Choma (Burn)," an uptempo spiritual piece that begins with a rare flute solo by Land, followed by Henderson's acoustic piano and then Hutcherson's marimba. The powerful 10-minute track, described in the original notes by Leroy Robinson as "a percussive tour de force," is followed by the funky and relaxed groove of "Our Home," a composition by Henderson that showcases Land's superb tenor sax solo and the inspired Fender Rhodes of the pianist. "Black Caucus" is a funky track where all the musicians are unleashed, galvanized by the political connotation of the title. It is followed by "Up and Down," featuring a more traditional jazz play where the telepathic connection between Land and Hutcherson is evident, ending the album on a perfect note. An essential album for all fans of the Harold Land-Bobby Hutcherson Quintet, Choma (Burn) captures the musicians at the height of their art and is now sought after by 70s jazz enthusiasts. It is reissued here in its original sleeve with all photos scanned from original negatives or prints, recently found in the label's archives. With remastered audio and a 2-page insert including new liner notes by Kevin Le Gendre.