In a wild, pulsating rhythm of the night, trumpeter Hannibal Lokumbe is out there, riding the edge of exploration, exploding notes that aren't just about skill, but soul. It's a raw, fiery dance of improvisation, where his fingers don't just play, they scream emotion. Dive deep, and you'll feel the virtuosity and the heartbeats intertwined.
Born Marvin Peterson, the Smithfield, Texas native was sometimes known by the name Hannibal. He started playing the trumpet in junior high school and in the late 1960s, he attended the excellent Jazz program at North Texas State for two years, then moved to New York City and went on tour with Rahsaan Roland Kirk. He became a member of the Gil Evans orchestra, an association that lasted through the 1980s, and worked with Roy Haynes and Pharoah Sanders, recording with the late tenor giant on Black Unity.
From that point on, he took the helm of his Sunrise Orchestra, showcasing his talents on both the koto and trumpet, and produced several albums across various labels. Later, he returned to Texas, embraced the name Lokumbe, and delved into crafting and presenting works with a symphonic essence that celebrated African American culture.
The explorative trumpeter is heard at his absolute peak on Charles Mingus’ “Better Get It In Your Soul” from the Mt. Fuji Jazz Festival in a group he co-led with George Adams. Both horn men offer fiery improvisations that show off not only their virtuosity but their emotional range. The group includes Jean-Paul Bourelly on guitar, Santi DeBriano on bass and Lewis Nash, who also solos memorably.
Hey Gary: Yes, I do know Leo's version. I really dig his playing, and his videos. It would appear Grace Kelly is now his musical and life partner. He's gotta a whole different thing going on than other baritone sax players with his hair, clothing and his movements. The sax duos with Grace, who is also an excellent musician bring a visual component to the music that's very organic, and fun.
Dear Bret, Impressive performance. This driving gospel piece always seems to inspire musician and audiences. (Do you know this energetic version by sax-baritone Leo Pellegrino? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krLYZmPRtnc 11:15) The spontaneous handclapping from the audience, changing metrical gears over a static 6/8 pattern, impassioned solos and exhortatory shouting are unmistakable qualities of a jazz-soul inspiring classic...an improvised opening bass solo that become part of the composition...a masterpiece...Medicine for the Soul... Thanks for sharing. Best regards and be safe.