Alan Braufman’s ’70s, downtown NYC jazz record reissued for the first time

“A unique and very alive slice of New York’s creative improvised underground.”

During the seventies, vast expanses of downtown Manhattan were up for grabs, with seriously cheap rent attracting an underworld of artists, musicians and performers.

One such place was 501 Canal street, an entire building that a group of Berklee Music school graduates rented for a mere $560, which soon became an epicentre for jazz improvisers roaming the lower west side.

In 1974, two short sets lead by saxophonist Alan Braufman were captured in 501’s store front.

Originally released on India Navigation in 1975 under the name Valley of Search, the album has been remastered for its first ever reissue via The Control Group.

Valley of Search features Braufman on saxophone, Cooper-Moore on piano, Cecil McBee on bass, David Lee on drums, and Ralph Williams on percussion.

Pre-order a copy here ahead of its 29th June release, listen to ‘Ark of Salvation’ and check out the track list below.

Tracklist

Side A

A2. Chant

A3. Thankfulness

A4. Love is for Real

A5. Foreshadow

Side B

B2. Ark of Salvation

B3. Little Nabil’s March

B4. Destiny