Acid Jazz has released an official reissue of Emmanuel Abdul-Rahim’s highly obscure 1988 Latin jazz dance full-length Harlem featuring The Times at Hand Orchestra. Known for his 1972 classic album Total Submission for Cobblestone/Muse, this later recording, which is equally brilliant, is often overlooked.

Also featuring another percussionist great in Steve Berrios (Mongo Santamaria, Jerry Gonzalez, Hilton Ruiz), this incredible recording brings together funky Latin and African-influenced rhythms with soulful jazz grooves. Recorded in Abdul-Rahim’s adopted home of Denmark, the album is solid from start to finish with highlights including the title track and Kalahari Suite “Harlem,” a tribute to Sabu Martinez, simply titled “Sabu,” the mid-tempo salsa cut “Cycles,” and closing gem “Kalahari”.

Now officially reissued on vinyl for the first time since its initial release, hopefully this album will begin to get the proper recognition it deserves. Definitely not one to sleep on!

Emmanuel Abdul-Rahim Ft. The Times At Hand Orchestra — ‘Harlem’
(Originally released: 1988 / Olufsen Records)
(Reissued: 2021 / Acid Jazz)

1. Are You Series
2. Cycles
3. Harlem
4. Sabu
5. Appear
6. Theme For Caddee
7. Times At Hand
8. Kalahari

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• Jazz
• Jazz Dance
• Latin
• Spiritual Jazz