Basra (album)

Basra is a 1980 album by the American jazz trumpeter and composer Don Cherry. It was released on the Blue Note label. The album features Cherry leading a quintet with Charlie Haden on bass, Ed Blackwell on drums, Ricky Cherry (Don's wife) on tamboura, and Naná Vasconcelos on berimbau and percussion.

The album is notable for its blending of free jazz, world music influences, and Cherry's distinctive melodic approach. The compositions explore themes of spirituality, peace, and global interconnectedness. It draws inspiration from various musical traditions, including Indian, African, and Middle Eastern sounds.

Key tracks on the album include "Basra," the title track, which showcases Cherry's improvisational skills and the ensemble's dynamic interplay; "Utopia and Visions," a piece that emphasizes the album's optimistic and forward-looking themes; and "Allah-O-Akbar," which incorporates elements of Islamic devotional music.

Basra is considered a significant work in Don Cherry's discography, demonstrating his commitment to exploring new sonic territories and bridging cultural divides through music.