XLR8R

Philadelphian King Britt is one of those rare musical figures known as much for taste-making as his own productions. He relies on the former for this remarkable collection, pulled from 30 years of free-jazz. In at attempt to connect African heritage in jazz through non-linear soundscapes, the opening spoken-word manifesto of Herbie Hancock's "Kawaida" sets the tone for the explosive guitars of Mtume, the native rhythms of Don Cherry, and the sweet chaos of Flora Purim. Doug & Jean Carn's closing, heartfelt "Naima" is an exquisite lullaby to quiet the storm. Make no mistake: This is a cosmic head trip if ever one existed-straight from the soul.