Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs in Arabic Unlock the Editor’s Digest for freeRoula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.Like many up-and-coming tenor saxophonists, Linda Sikhakhane wears the influence of John Coltrane on his sleeve. In Sikhakhane’s second major-label release, Iladi (a Zulu word referring to a ritual ceremony of acknowledgement) he takes on the spiritual experiments and modal investigations of Coltrane’s later years. Yet the 32-year-old South African also has a strong personal voice — he pares down Coltrane’s approach to its core, and his own emotional palette is shaded with doubt.The set opens with ominous themes from pianist Nduduzo Makhathini, whose solo mixes angular shapes with dense modal chords. This introduces the brooding melody of “iGosa”, a title that loosely translates as “guardian/leader”.“Inkehli” comes next — an ode to matriarchy with a dancing bass line and a warm, pensive theme. Later in the set, the lovely ballad “Mama” avoids sentimentality, while “Influential Moments (revisited)” romps along. The spiritual resonance of “Ecako” (the Zulu word for home) is signalled by a roll of drums.South African influences shine through in the rhythmic inflections of Sikhakhane’s lines and also Makhathini’s strength of character, sensitive emotions and firmness of touch, particularly evident on the duet “Umhlahlanlela”. The piece, which references the relationship between master and pupil, resonates spaciously while developing at a slow, deliberate pace.In contrast, the album’s crackling snare beats and firmly anchored double bass reflect current US approaches to modern jazz. Kweku Sumbry holds the drum chair in Immanuel Wilkins’ outstanding band, and here delivers a similar focus and drive. Double bassist Zwelakhe-Duma Bell le Pere, though of South African heritage, was raised in New Haven, Connecticut, and plays with a confident and aggressive attack.While the music follows a well-signposted spiritual path, a thoughtful mix of influences and empathetic musicianship deliver something fresh.★★★★☆ ‘Iladi’ is released by Blue Note Africa
