Now-Again Records reissues Holy Grail album from Alvin Batiste’s Southern University Jazz Ensemble
Eothen “Egon” Alapatt’s superb Now-Again Records has recently reissued the Southern University Jazz Ensemble’s very rare 1973 spiritual jazz “Holy Grail” record, titled Goes to Africa With Love. Originally given away as souvenirs at Southern University, this represents the first-ever commercial release of this album.
This incredible 11-track recording, which was led by New Orleans’ legend Alvin Batiste while he was instructing the Baton Rouge college band, features both vocal and never-before-released instrumental renditions of each composition. The record’s major highlight is the group’s 16-minute version of the spiritual Afro-Brazilian jazz dance gem “Samba Dee”.
Also worth checking out, is Now-Again’s reissue of the group’s other collectable recording, Live At The 1971 American College Jazz Festival, which features some great renditions of music by John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard.
These well-crafted reissues also include a detailed set of liner notes by jazz historian Bret Sjerven, presented in an oversized booklet packed full of never-published photos. Sjerven’s investigation delves into Batiste’s history and the deep Louisiana scene which birthed these remarkable records.
It’s great to see these records receive new life and a well-deserved official reissue following many years going unnoticed and often numerous original copies circulating in New Orleans’ thrift shops. Definitely one of the most essential reissue releases of the year!
Southern University Jazz Ensemble — ‘Goes to Africa With Love’
(Originally Released: 1973 / Jazzstronauts)
(Reissued: 2023 / Now-Again Records)
- Samba Dee
- AhJa Ge Da Ba
- Clean Air
- Music Came
- Nanigo
- Holdin’ Meetin’
- Samba Dee (Instrumental)
- Music Came (Instrumental)
- AhJa Ge Da Ba (Instrumental)
- Nanigo (Instrumental)
- Holdin’ Meetin’ (Instrumental)
