Forest Flower & Soundtrack

 (21 customer reviews)

There is a reason for only 5 star reviews for this cd. It is one of the most accessible jazz cd's for those starting an interest in jazz. The music is like a more mellow, bluesy interpretation of Coltrane and modal jazz styles of the 60's. This is one of those cds that resulted in a crossover hippie and college-aged audience, and as a result, this album and the charles lloyd quartet was the most successful jazz group at that time. The opening title tracks are the most interesting and accessible, and don't sound that far off from the psychedelic rock that was merging with jazz at that time. In fact, Miles was inspired enough by this group to borrow some of the personnel for his electronic explorations. The rhythm section is one of the better ones still around with Jack Dejohnette, Gary Peacock, and Keith Jarrett. Charles Lloyd might not be as famous now, but his more laidback, breathy interpretation of Coltrane, and his less derivative flute playing fit in perfectly with the Jarrett...Read more

I picked this up recently as I only had the original version as a LP on vynyl. It was like meeting an old friend again and finding that you still have much in common. I can only guess that I have heard this song hundreds of times throughout the many years since it was originally released. I never get tired of it. The title track is one of the best songs ever penned or performed by Charles Lloyd. His sax style is completly unique, although some people have compared him to Trane. When he does sound like Trane he immediately lets you know that he has his own voice. He hits soft notes at times that sound so beautiful and yet exhilirating . The tonal quality of his playing almost sounds like he is playing an alto rather than a tenor. The musical call and response performed betweeen Lloyd and Keith Jarrett is fabulous. Keith's plucking of the interior of the piano is unforgetable. The transition from "Sunrise" to "Sunset" is suttle but if you listen carefully...Read more

I first heard this album when I was an undergraduate student at Howard University. I was in the apartment of a friend who was our first real bohemian. She served white wine with green grapes in the bottom of the glasses and told us this album would change our lives. I don't know about that, but it made a big impression on me and I rushed out to buy it immediately.I've carried it with me ever since and at least two or three days a week, I put it on when I first wake up to start the day off right. It is, of course, scratchy beyond repair at this point. Finding it on CD is such a wonderful gift and guarantees another 30 years of good morning sunshine!