Yusef Lateef was a unique figure in the jazz world. Though Lateef’s main instruments were the tenor sax and flute, he also played oboe and bassoon, which were rare in jazz. In addition, he also played an array of non-Western instruments, such as the solar, xun, koto, and bamboo flute, incorporating “eastern music” into jazz. His album Eastern Sounds is a remarkable and influential album that showcases the versatility and innovation of the legendary jazz multi-instrumentalist. Released in 1961, this album stands out for its fusion of jazz with Eastern influences, creating a unique and captivating musical experience.
One of the key elements that make Eastern Sounds distinctive is Lateef’s ability to seamlessly blend traditional jazz with elements of Middle Eastern and Asian music, adding a rich and exotic flavor to the compositions. The album features a balance of contemplative and rhythmic tracks, offering a diverse listening experience. As part of their Original Jazz Classics series, Craft Recordings is reissuing Eastern Sounds on 180-gram vinyl with all-analog mastering from the original tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.
The opening track, “The Plum Blossom,” sets the tone for the album with its serene and meditative atmosphere. Lateef’s use of the Chinese xun, a globular flute, adds an ethereal quality to the piece. Throughout the album, he incorporates instruments like the bamboo flute and shanai, creating a tapestry of sounds that transport the listener to different cultural landscapes. Another standout track is “Blues for the Orient,” where Lateef effortlessly combines blues elements with Eastern scales. The result is a soulful and introspective composition that reflects the album’s exploration of cross-cultural musical expressions. The album features a rendition of the “Love Theme from Spartacus” on which Lateef brings his distinctive touch to this cinematic piece, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known composition with Lateef’s expressive playing on the oboe. The combination of exotic instruments and energetic rhythms adds a dynamic element to the album. The most driving track on the album is “Snafu” which finds both Lateef and pianist Barry Harris providing excellent solo work. The bass groove provided by Ernie Farrow provides an aggressive feel to the track and make “Snafu” one of the standout tracks on the album.
Yusef Lateef’s “Eastern Sounds” is a masterful exploration of the intersection between jazz and Eastern musical traditions. It is not only a showcase of Lateef’s instrumental prowess but also a testament to his innovative spirit. The incorporation of unconventional instruments and scales challenges the traditional boundaries of jazz, making this album a groundbreaking work in the genre. Its enduring influence is evident in the way it has inspired subsequent generations of musicians to embrace diverse influences and push the boundaries of genre conventions. This album remains a timeless gem that continues to captivate listeners with its rich textures and cross-cultural musical dialogue.
