*2019 repress. 2022 stock* Third volume in the BYG Actuel series; gatefold sleeve, 180 gram vinyl. "After three years as a member of Albert Ayler's band (1964-1967), avant-garde jazz drummer Sunny Murray traveled to France where he recorded for Affinity and BYG. The amazing Homage to Africa was recorded on August 15, 1969 for BYG and features Archie Shepp, Alan Silva, Grachan Moncur III, Lester Bowie, Clifford Thornton, Roscoe Mitchell, Kenneth Terroade and Jeanne Lee.

"One of the more spiritual sessions for BYG, and a large ensemble session that brings together players like Archie Shepp, Malachi Favors, Roscoe Mitchell, Grachan Moncur, and Clifford Thornton. "Suns Of Africa" takes up all of side one, and although it begins slow, and with spare soloing, it moves into a slow rhythmic pulse that pulls along all players in a moving ensemble passge that sparkles with feeling and spirituality. Side 2 has two shorter pieces entitled "R.I.P.", which is more intense, and "Unity", which again moves into a mellower ensemble space. Certainly one of our favorite albums on BYG, and one that we find ourselves returning to more than others on the label! " Dustygroove