Apr 1, 2012
Holy Week, commemorating Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem followed by his Crucifixion and Resurrection. begins today for Christians all over the world. Today is also the Hindu festival of Rama Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of the God Vishnu. For Jews, preparations are underway for the celebration of Passover on April 6th, the “Festival of Freedom,” recalling the Exodus from Egypt. That same day, Buddhists will celebrate Therevanda, the New Year’s festival, followed by Hana Matsui, the Flower Festival., The Bahá'í have just celebrated their New Year, Naw Ruz and are preparing for the first of twelve days of Riḍván, commemorating the commencement of Bahá'u'lláh's prophethood.
That’s a whole lot of religious spirit going on.
Podcast 267 is our annual selection of spiritual and introspective jazz, performed by artists of varying religious denominations, colors and creeds. I like to think of it as one long melting pot of a mixtape celebrating the wonderful diversity of religious contemplation and celebration happening this time of year. Click here to enjoy:
Conrad Herwig – “Blessing” from The Latin Side of John Coltrane.
Lloyd McNeil – “Tranquil” from Tori.
Jessica Williams Trio – “Prayer and Meditation” from Freedom Trane.
Nnenna Freelon – “You're Nearer-Nearer My God To Thee” from Soulcall.
John Scofield – “Walk With Me” from Piety Street.
John Zorn – “Tikkun (Rectification)” from Kristallnacht,
Mind Body Spirit – “Magic Ritual” from Black Renaissance.
Kirk Whalum – “Spirit Medley (Spirit of the Living God-Sweet, Sweet Spirit, Is Your All)” from The Gospel According to Jazz – Chapter 2.
Larry Carlton – “The Lord’s Prayer” from Alone/But Never Alone.
Kamal Abdul-Alim – “Prayer” from Dance.
Conrad Herwig – “Blessing” from The Latin Side of John Coltrane