Idris Ackamoor and the Pyramids - Shaman
by Maarten Schiethart
published: 25 / 1 / 2021

Label:
Strut Records
Format: CD
intro
Enthralling seventh double album from Chicago jazz wizard Idris Ackamoor and his band the Pyramids
A hard act to follow in the truest sense of the word, Idris Ackamoor, also known as Bruce Baker, leads the Pyramids with an album release about every decade. His recording career starting 1974 continued in 1998 and in Year 2020 sees the birth of this rather dandy and delicious 'Shaman!' album on the Strut label. Distinguishably jazzy and fundamentally groovy the Pyramids drift on a seamless ride through Sun Ra esotericism and quaint funkadelics. Spread over Four Acts, 'Shaman!' marks a time demanding experience, yet a welcome one. A beguiling set of tracks, jingling with energy. 'The Last Slave Ship' from Act 4 takes jazz funk back to Africa but the majestic beauty of 'Dogon Mysteries' serves as the icing on the cake. Dr. Margaux Simmons' dazzling flute play lifts the Pyramids to greater heights. The build-up of the four acts only occured to me after the first listen. From 'Fire Rites of Penance' through 'A Glimpse of Eternity' resting 'Upon Whose Shoulders We Stand' the album concludes with '400 Years The Clotilda'. Jazz funk music with lovely touches of Afrobeat and a double LP of acquired taste.,
Track Listing:-
1 Shaman!2 Tango of Love
3 Eternity
4 When Will I See You Again?
5 Salvation
6 Theme for Cecil
7 Virgin
8 The Last Slave Ship
9 Dogon Mysteries
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http://www.strut-records.com/
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