was 32 when, in 1973, he finally got around to recording his first album as a leader, . By that time, the pianist/keyboardist had a great deal of sideman experience under his belt, and this superb debut made it clear that former employers like , , and had taught him well. One hears a lot of influence on ; obviously shares their passion for all things spiritual. Nonetheless, this LP leaves no doubt that the improviser is very much his own man and has a wealth of brilliant ideas of his own; thankfully, he has a cohesive band to help him carry them out. On 's 1973 edition of includes on soprano and tenor sax, on guitar, on bass, on drums, and on percussion, on Indian tabla drums, and on the Indian tamboura. An impressive lineup, and one that shows a great understanding of 's spiritual nature. Ninety-five percent of the time, is serene and tranquil; but on the unexpected interesting happens when goes outside during his sax solo and gets into the type of dissonant, forceful screaming one would expect from or late-period . has a hauntingly peaceful melody, but 's out-of-left-field solo makes it the most avant-garde track that ever recorded as a leader. Produced by the late -- an eclectic heavyweight who worked with everyone from to -- is among 's most essential and rewarding albums. ~ Alex Henderson