That this gem of a record met with total obscurity speaks volumes about the state of commercially viable music in the late 60´s, in which heartfelt, acoustic, gimmick-free Jazz was swept completely under the rug. But Natural Essence is a poignant enough album even without considering the context of it tragically falling on a world of deaf ears. Tyrone Washington was only 23, and had the sound of an absolute powerhouse - his tenor suggested a striking amalgamation of Joe Henderson and Eric Dolphy - and packed one of the ultimate front-line wallops with the equally fiery Woody Shaw on trumpet. Rounding out the impressive lineup, meanwhile, were no less than Kenny Barron, Reggie Workman, Joe Chambers, and James Spaulding (on alto sax and flute). Intensely earnest and spiritual, and having written all of the music which lived up to his striving, idealistic titles, Washington comes off as the heir apparent to John Coltrane himself, and this album directly alludes to a continuation of his legacy!!Tracklisting:
1. Natural Essence
2. Yearning For Love
3. Positive Path
4. Soul Dance
5. Ethos
6. Song Of Peace
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