By Esther Callens
Wynton Marsalis is set to release an emotive collective of some of his previous pieces that were recorded in 1988 to 2002. Available in retail on October 22nd is The Spiritual Side of Wynton Marsalis. Incorporating some of the best in rousing gospel favorites, Marsalis’ latest offers a hand clapping, good time of praise and celebration.
There is no doubt that Wynton Marsalis is a celebrated artist. Hailing from a talented family, he has set apart a name for himself as he has garnered nine Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for his music. Aside from being an accomplished trumpeter, composer and avid music educator, he is the Managing and Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. States Simeon Marsalis (Wynton Marsalis’ son) on this project liner notes – “Marsalis’ growth was grounded in Christian philosophy by his mother.” This is likely the basis for this remarkable collection.
On The Spiritual Side are a cappella snippets of Shirley Caesar on “I Hear A Knockin’” and “If I Hold On” (originally released on Reeltime in 1999), “Oh We Have A Friend In Jesus” with Cassandra Wilson vocals (Blood On The Fields 1997) and numerous other titles from seven different albums. There is also a bonus in the never before release recording of Marion Williams performing “Precious Lord, Take My Hand.” This album mirrors the exact reflection of the Marsalis fans know and love.
Appropriately this release coincides with Abyssinian: A Gospel Celebration Tour featuring Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Damien Sneed – conductor and the 70 voice Chorale Le Chateau. They will be touring numerous venues in various cities during the month of October. The Spiritual Side of Wynton Marsalis is a Columbia Records and Sony Classical release.
Track listings: I Hear A Knockin; All Rise: I Am (Don’t You Run From Me); If I Hold On; Processional; Psalm 26; Awakening; Hymn; Precious Lord, Take My Hand; In The Sweet Embrace Of Life Sermon: Holy Ghost; Flee As A Bird To The Mountain; Sing On; Benediction; Oh We Have A Friend In Jesus; To Higher ground; Pot Blessed Dinner.
