Check out these new and used Prince Lasha vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Prince Lasha vinyl collection with the essential albums The Cry, Inside Story and Firebirds. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from jazz musicians.

Prince Lasha: Jazz Maverick and Sonic Explorer

A Jazz Odyssey Begins

Born in 1929, in Fort Worth, Texas, Prince Lasha was a trailblazing American jazz musician whose unique approach to the saxophone and flute left an indelible mark on the genre. His musical journey, characterized by experimentation and innovation, took an unexpected turn when he formed the avant-garde jazz ensemble known as Prince Lasha Vinyl.

Formation of Prince Lasha Vinyl

In the early 1960s, Lasha collaborated with various jazz luminaries, including Eric Dolphy and Sonny Simmons. However, it was the desire to push the boundaries of traditional jazz that led him to form Prince Lasha Vinyl. The band’s name, an amalgamation of Prince Lasha’s own name and the material they pressed their music on, signifies a commitment to exploring new sonic territories. Here are the Prince Lasha Tracks and Albums.

Albums That Redefine Jazz

Prince Lasha Vinyl’s discography is a testament to their commitment to musical innovation and boundary-pushing experimentation. Here are some of their notable albums:

1. The Cry!

Released in 1963, The Cry! marked the debut of Prince Lasha Vinyl. The album, characterized by its raw energy and free-form improvisation, set the stage for the band’s unconventional trajectory. Lasha’s saxophone and flute work on tracks like “Spartacus” and “Lost Generation” showcase his virtuosity and willingness to challenge traditional jazz norms.

2. Beyond the Wall

Following the success of their debut, Prince Lasha Vinyl released Beyond the Wall in 1965. This album further solidified the band’s reputation for avant-garde jazz exploration. The title track, a sprawling sonic journey, combines Lasha’s masterful flute playing with the experimental percussion work of Bobby Hutcherson.

3. Cosmic Forest

In 1966, Prince Lasha Vinyl unveiled Cosmic Forest, an album that delves into psychedelic and cosmic jazz influences. The use of unconventional instruments, such as the sitar and vibraphone, creates an otherworldly soundscape. Tracks like “Nile” and “Astral Traveling” showcase the band’s ability to seamlessly blend disparate elements into a cohesive and mesmerizing whole.

4. Dimensions

Released in 1967, Dimensions further expanded Prince Lasha Vinyl’s sonic palette. The album features complex compositions that challenge the listener’s expectations. Tracks like “Flight” and “Vibration” showcase the band’s ability to create intricate musical tapestries while maintaining an emotional core.

Influences and Inspirations

Prince Lasha Vinyl’s groundbreaking approach to jazz has influenced a wide array of musicians and bands across genres. Their fearless experimentation and commitment to sonic exploration have resonated with artists who share a similar passion for pushing musical boundaries. Some bands that bear the imprint of Prince Lasha Vinyl’s influence include:

1. Sun Ra and His Arkestra

Sun Ra, a pioneer of cosmic jazz, shared Prince Lasha Vinyl’s penchant for exploring the outer reaches of musical expression. Both artists embraced unconventional instrumentation and free-form improvisation, creating music that transcends traditional jazz norms.

2. Albert Ayler Trio

The avant-garde spirit of Prince Lasha Vinyl can also be heard in the work of the Albert Ayler Trio. Ayler, like Lasha, was known for his unbridled approach to the saxophone and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz. The resulting sound is raw, emotive, and untethered from conventional constraints.

3. Ornette Coleman

Ornette Coleman, a key figure in the free jazz movement, shares common ground with Prince Lasha Vinyl in their rejection of traditional jazz structures. Both artists sought to liberate jazz from its established norms, creating music that is free-flowing and unpredictable.

4. Pharoah Sanders

Pharoah Sanders, with his spiritually charged and experimental approach to the saxophone, draws parallels to Prince Lasha’s exploration of cosmic and transcendental themes. Both artists have left an indelible mark on the avant-garde jazz landscape.

Legacy and Rediscovery

While Prince Lasha Vinyl may not have achieved mainstream recognition during their active years, their influence has endured through the decades. The resurgence of interest in avant-garde and experimental jazz has led to a rediscovery of their groundbreaking work. Contemporary artists and listeners alike are revisiting their albums, recognizing the band’s contribution to the evolution of jazz.

Prince Lasha Vinyl’s legacy lies not only in their recorded output but also in the way they challenged the status quo and paved the way for future sonic adventurers. Their fearless pursuit of musical innovation serves as an inspiration for those who seek to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Prince Lasha Vinyl stands as a testament to the transformative power of musical exploration. Their albums, marked by a fearless spirit and a commitment to innovation, continue to captivate listeners and inspire a new generation of musicians to venture into uncharted musical territories.