Bennie Maupin’s The Jewel in the Lotus: A Timeless Masterpiece of Modern Jazz

Coming May 16, 2025 – A Classic from 1974 Reissued by ECM

Prepare to rediscover a hidden gem of modern jazz with the upcoming reissue of Bennie Maupin’s The Jewel in the Lotus, set for release on May 16, 2025, through ECM Records. Originally recorded in 1974, this album is a remarkable testament to the creativity and musical ingenuity that defined the era. Featuring an ensemble of stellar musicians, including Herbie Hancock, Buster Williams, Billy Hart, and more, The Jewel in the Lotus has long been considered an unsung classic, and now, it's set to captivate a new generation of listeners.

A Brilliant Convergence of Jazz Legends

Bennie Maupin, a master saxophonist and reed player, has made significant contributions to some of jazz’s most iconic albums, including Miles Davis’s Bitches Brew, Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi and Headhunters, and Marion Brown’s Afternoon of a Georgia Faun. However, Maupin’s own solo work has been sparse, making The Jewel in the Lotus even more special. Released initially as ECM 1042, the album stands out as a milestone in Maupin’s career, showcasing his inventive approach to jazz.

On this album, Maupin is joined by a who’s-who of jazz innovators:

• Herbie Hancock (piano, electric piano)

• Buster Williams (bass)

• Frederick Waits (drums, marimba)

• Billy Hart (drums)

• Bill Summers (percussion)

• Charles Sullivan (trumpet)

This dynamic ensemble, drawn from Hancock’s inner circle during the 1970s, creates a uniquely cohesive sound that blends the influences of avant-garde jazz, modal improvisation, and complex rhythmic structures. Each player contributes to the overall tapestry, creating an album that feels like a collective expression of artistic vision.

The Sound of Selflessness: A Masterpiece of Jazz Fusion

Released in 1974, The Jewel in the Lotus was hailed by DownBeat as a “selfless album,” with the review emphasizing the way in which the musicians seamlessly blend their voices, creating an organic and powerful sound. The album’s title itself evokes a sense of purity and mysticism, and the music reflects this ethos with its intricate yet meditative qualities.

Pitchfork recently described The Jewel in the Lotus as “an unsung modernist classic,” and indeed, the album’s ethereal quality and advanced harmonic structures were ahead of their time. The performance is marked by long, introspective passages, punctuated by vibrant solos and complex interactions between the players. Maupin’s reeds and glockenspiel work is mesmerizing, interwoven with Hancock’s inventive piano and electric piano arrangements, which create both a spacious atmosphere and a driving sense of energy. The rhythmic interplay between Waits and Hart adds depth and dimension, with percussionist Bill Summers and trumpeter Charles Sullivan enriching the overall texture.

A Timeless Contribution to Jazz History

While The Jewel in the Lotus was largely overshadowed by some of the more well-known projects of the 1970s, it has gained recognition over time for its uncompromising artistic vision and innovative approach to jazz fusion. Its blend of experimentalism and accessibility makes it a timeless classic that continues to influence musicians and jazz aficionados alike.

The reissue of The Jewel in the Lotus is an essential addition to any jazz collection. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Bennie Maupin or discovering this masterpiece for the first time, the album offers a powerful reminder of the creativity and spirit that defined an era of groundbreaking jazz.

The Personnel: A Legendary Lineup

• Bennie Maupin – Reeds, Voice, Glockenspiel

• Herbie Hancock – Piano, Electric Piano

• Buster Williams – Bass

• Frederick Waits – Drums, Marimba

• Billy Hart – Drums

• Bill Summers – Percussion

• Charles Sullivan – Trumpet

About Bennie Maupin

Bennie Maupin is a renowned saxophonist, clarinetist, and flutist who has been an influential figure in the jazz world for decades. Known for his work with Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and other legendary musicians, Maupin’s distinctive sound and visionary approach to improvisation have made him a key figure in the development of modern jazz. His contributions to albums like Bitches Brew, Mwandishi, and Headhunters have solidified his reputation as one of jazz's most innovative and influential musicians.