American Jazzscapes of the Middle East - Artists
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Song Title: Al-Nisa

Artist: Black Unity Trio

Year Released: 1969
Wikipedia Summary: The Black Unity Trio was a groundbreaking free jazz group active from 1968 to 1970, consisting of Yusuf Mumin (saxophone), Abdul Wadud (cello), and Hasan Shahid (drums). Their sole album, *Al-Fatihah*, released in 1969, is considered one of the first independently released avant-garde jazz records. The trio's music was deeply influenced by the political and social upheavals of the era, including anti-racist movements, anti-war protests, and Black nationalist ideologies. Their sound combined raw improvisation with spiritual themes, often drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern music and philosophy. For instance, the album title references the first chapter of the Quran, and tracks like “Birth, Life and Death” feature a call to prayer on saxophone. These elements reflect their engagement with Eastern spirituality and belief systems, which infused their music with a transcendent and meditative quality while maintaining its revolutionary edge.
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