Afro-Harping by Dorothy Ashby: A Timeless Blend of Soulful Jazz and Funk
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Dorothy Ashby’s “Afro-Harping,” recorded in the late 1960s for Chess Records, stands as a definitive deep funky album that showcases the harpist’s exceptional talent and innovative approach to jazz. With arrangements by Richard Evans and a stellar (though unknown) line-up, this album captures the soulful essence of late 60s jazz with hypnotic grooves and sumptuous orchestrations.
Remastered from the original ¼ inch tapes by Alex Wharton at Abbey Road Studios, “Afro-Harping” is filled with African percussion, soulful orchestrations, and in-the-pocket rhythms. These elements, combined with Ashby’s virtuosity, elevate the album far beyond typical jazz mood music, making it a favorite among beat heads and producers. The album’s tracks, such as “Soul Vibrations” and “Come Live With Me,” have been extensively sampled by renowned artists like Pete Rock, Kendrick Lamar, J Dilla, Madlib, and Flying Lotus.
The deluxe version of “Afro-Harping” features eight bonus tracks, including alternate takes from the surviving four-track session reels that some argue are superior to the original album versions. This includes an explosive rendition of “Soul Vibrations,” extended versions of the title track and “Little Sunflower,” and two fantastic jazzy readings of “Theme from Valley of the Dolls.” The session reels also include in-studio atmosphere, with voices of Dorothy Ashby, Richard Evans, and others providing a glimpse into the recording process with moments of encouragement, laughter, beatboxing, and discussions.
By the time “Afro-Harping” was recorded, Richard Evans was managing every aspect of Cadet Records, applying his emerging funk formula to various artists. His growing Afrocentricity, combined with Ashby’s desire to highlight the Black struggle—a theme explored in several plays she and her husband John produced in Detroit—laid the foundations for this album. Evans described Ashby’s jazz playing as sophisticated and very New York-ish, but aimed to infuse the music with a very Black, very funky essence at Cadet.
“Afro-Harping” was later rediscovered and celebrated by hip-hop producers and DJs such as Gilles Peterson and 4Hero, further cementing its influence and timeless appeal. The LP, housed in a gatefold sleeve, continues to be a source of inspiration for musicians and listeners alike.
Dorothy Ashby’s “Afro-Harping” is more than just a compilation of jazz tracks; it is a cultural artifact that blends soulful jazz and funk with African rhythms and orchestral flourishes. This album not only highlights Ashby’s incredible talent but also her ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries, making it a significant piece in the history of jazz and beyond.
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