Nate Morgan’s 'Retribution, Reparation' is a profound statement from Los Angeles’ often unsung jazz visionary. Released in 1982, this album radiates both urgency and introspection, drawing from the deep well of the Black Arts Movement and the city’s vibrant jazz underground. Morgan, a gifted pianist and composer, channels spiritual jazz traditions through a distinctly West Coast lens, blending modal improvisation, Afrocentric rhythms, and soul-stirring melodies. The album’s title signals its thematic weight—these compositions are unapologetically rooted in the struggle for dignity and justice, yet they soar with hope and resilience. Morgan’s interplay with his ensemble is both fierce and empathetic, creating a sense of communal uplift across every track. 'Retribution, Reparation' is more than an artifact; it is a living testament to the power of jazz as social commentary and personal liberation. For collectors and listeners alike, this record offers a rare glimpse into LA’s jazz renaissance and the indomitable spirit of an artist who transformed adversity into brilliance. Essential for anyone drawn to music that resonates with purpose and spiritual depth.
Track List:
1 - U.G.M.A.A.GER - 6:44
2 - Impulse - 5:45
3 - Mass Madness - 5:58
4 - Retribution Reparation - 6:49
5 - One Finger Snap - 2:57
6 - Come Sunday - 8:44