Charles Lloyd's "Canto," released in June 1997, is a masterful exploration of jazz and free jazz, marking his fourth album with ECM Records in the 1990s. Recorded at the renowned Rainbow Studio in Oslo, Norway, in December 1996, this album showcases Lloyd's unique blend of spiritual depth and musical virtuosity. The album features a stellar lineup, including Bobo Stenson on piano, Anders Jormin on double bass, and Billy Hart on drums, each contributing to the rich, layered soundscapes that define this record.
"Canto" spans seven tracks, each a testament to Lloyd's ability to weave together elements of blues, classical, and free jazz. The album opens with "Tales Of Rumi," setting a contemplative tone that carries through to tracks like "Desolation Sound" and "Nachiketa's Lament." The title track, "Canto," stands out as a centerpiece, reflecting Lloyd's serene spiritual mastery and his ability to convey profound wisdom through his music. The album concludes with "Durga Durga," a powerful and uplifting piece that underscores the album's thematic unity.
With a duration of just over an hour, "Canto" offers a rich listening experience, inviting the listener into a world of deep reflection and musical innovation. Charles Lloyd's tenor saxophone and Tibetan oboe performances are particularly noteworthy, adding a unique texture to the album's sound. The engineering by Jan Erik Kongshaug and the design by Dieter Rehm further enhance the album's aesthetic and sonic qualities, making "Canto" a standout release in Lloyd's discography.
