Horace Tapscott Quintet - The Giant Is Awakened (2014) 320 kbps

This is a limited edition release of only 1000 copies so if you are interested I recommend you purchase quickly.
Why should you be interested? For one thing, this 1969 recording is the first recording I know of featuring Arthur Blythe who is one of the outstanding alto saxophonists of his generation and a compelling composer in his own right. He would not record under his own name until the late 70s. His distinct tone is already apparent on this recording. He contributes one song to the CD "For Fats".
The other reason to own this gem is Horace Tapscott who has never gotten close to his just due. Perhaps this CD release will change that a little. Tapscott chose to most of his career in the Los Angeles area where he formed the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra in the early 60s and which he lead until his death in 1999. In terms on his impact on a musical community the only person I can really compare him to is Muhal Richard Abrams during the formative years of the AACM.
He was a gifted pianist and composer and this CD features three of his compostions; The Giant in Awakened, The Dark Tree and Niger's Theme.
The other musicians on the recording ar Walter Savage, Jr. and David Byrant (both on bass) and Everett Brown, Jr. on drums.
The music is rousing, compelling, strongly melodic and exploratory. Anyone who enjoys the mid-60s sides of Jackie McLean, Andrew Hill, Charles Tolliver or Archie Shepp will find plenty to enjoy on this CD. And like I noted at the beginning of my review, with such a limited release this CD will not be available long.