The Black Ark cover

The Black Ark

Released

After two albums for the ESP-Disk’ label, alto saxophonist Noah Howard painted his masterpiece. This 1969 recording features four compositions that range from soulful grooves to an Asian-inspired piece to a mournful ballad, all played with commitment, even fervor, especially tenor saxophonist Arthur Doyle, who makes his debut and comes out of the gate screaming in a post-Pharoah Sanders style that will enthrall some and send others running.

Phil Freeman

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