Pharoah Sanders' 2003 album, With A Heartbeat, is a captivating fusion of free jazz, hard bop, and world music elements. This intriguing release, which features cornetist Graham Haynes, showcases Sanders' continued exploration of ethnic musics, a path he began to tread in the mid-1990s. The album's unique sound is built around heartbeat sounds recorded by Dr. Jean-Louis Zink, creating a distinctive sonic landscape.
Sanders and Haynes are joined by a talented ensemble, including guitarist Nicky Skopelitis, keyboardist Jeff Bova, and tabla virtuoso Trilok Gurtu, among others. The result is a rich and immersive listening experience, with each track offering a distinct flavour and texture. From the expansive 'Across Time' to the hypnotic 'Alankara (Beats Of The Heart)', the album's four tracks demonstrate Sanders' mastery of atmospheric soundscapes and his ability to craft compelling, genre-bending music.
With A Heartbeat is an album that will appeal to fans of Bill Laswell's productions, as well as those who appreciate the more experimental aspects of Pharoah Sanders' oeuvre. The album's blend of jazz, ambient, and world music elements makes for a fascinating and rewarding listen, one that showcases the artistic vision and creative genius of Pharoah Sanders and his collaborators. Released in 2003 on the Evolver label, a sub-label of Instinct Records, With A Heartbeat is a must-listen for anyone interested in the more adventurous and innovative aspects of jazz and beyond.
