Destiny Calling
OA2, 2023
9/10
An extremely creative listen, the combination of organ grooves and free improvisation come together here for the hard bop presence that has Charlie Apicella handling madal drum, Tibetan singing bowls and guitar with much expertise alongside The Griot Speak’s inimitable playing.
“As The Sun Rises” opens the listen with Daniel Carter’s fluid clarinet complementing Apicella’s playful drumming and William Parker’s strategic strings, and “Titan Vs. Sphinx” follows with soulful saxophone amid the lively drumming from Austin Walker that finds plenty of melody to reside in.
“We’re All Here In Spirit” lands in the middle and moves swiftly with no lack of rhythm thanks to Juma Sultan’s lively shakers and Parker’s animated bass playing, while “I Heard In Passing” offers a hectic performance of wild brass, acrobatic drumming and unpredictable keys from Brad Whiteley.
The final 2 tracks are among the best, where “Where Do You Find These People?” focuses on mood for the timeless jazz flavor, and “Sparks” exits with cozy guitar, shuffling drums and plenty of memorable grooves.
A very distinct listen that tips its hat to Yusef Lateef and Pat Martino, The Griot certainly add much to this pan-ancestral and pan-African experience you won’t soon forget.
Travels well with: Jeff Johnson- My Heart; Jason Keiser- Shaw’s Groove