Spiritual Jazz Essentials: 3 Must-Have Records
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I believe all music can be a spiritual experience; whether it nourishes or depletes you depends on the sound, the intent, and, of course, the listener.
For me, spiritual jazz is refuge, divine guidance, and a lesson in improvisation. I’m drawn to a musician’s lifelong devotion to their instrument and how their mastery transcends words and becomes pure emotion.
These three essential records embody the power of music to nourish, witness, and hold us.
Pharaoh Sanders - Pharaoh Sanders (1977)
Why It’s Essential: This is my favorite album, period. It’s dynamic, moving—perfectly capturing life’s dualities: challenge and triumph, joy and pain. It resonates with me on a deep level. I first listened to it about six years ago, and it still has the power to bring me to tears.
Key Tracks to Check Out: There are no skips. With only three tracks, this album is meant to be experienced from start to finish just as Pharaoh intended.
Vibe & Sound: Bluesy. Dynamic. At times melancholy, at times triumphant. Sometimes uncomfortable, sometimes playful, even humorous.
Best Setting to Listen: Perfect for lying on the couch or the floor, staring up at the ceiling. Ideal for sitting on the crest of a grassy hill, lost in deep contemplation. Best for feeling seen, held, understood, and inspired to share your light or shadow.
Journey in Satchidananda - Alice Coltrane (1970)
Why It’s Essential: This album is a stunning intersection of jazz and Eastern philosophy, featuring beautiful collaborations with Pharaoh Sanders. The liner notes include Alice’s reflections on each track. I won’t spoil them for you, but they add even more depth to the journey.
Key Tracks to Check Out: Journey in Satchidananda, Stopover Bombay. This album is best experienced in full, so no skips; just be present and listen.
Vibe & Sound: Ethereal. Meditative. Transcendent.
Best Setting to Listen: Perfect for drinking tea, cleaning, practicing gratitude, getting ready, or any moment that calls for calm and intention.
Astral Traveling - Lonnie Liston Smith (1973)
Why It’s Essential: The album’s title, Astral Traveling, captures it perfectly. Listening to this record feels like basking in a sense of peace and resolve that transcends this earthly plane.
Key Tracks to Check Out: Astral Traveling, In Search of Truth. But honestly, I think you should listen to the whole album.
Vibe & Sound: Ethereal. Blissful. Cinematic. It’s the kind of soundscape that makes you feel like you’re living your best life, no matter what you’re doing.
Best Setting to Listen: Whether you're getting things done or soaking up the music, this album’s the perfect companion.
I hold the albums above dear, and I think you will too, so if you’re looking to dive deeper into the world of spiritual jazz, start with these classics. What are your spiritual jazz essentials? Comment below.