Moon Child (Pharoah Sanders album)

Moon Child is a 1969 jazz album by American saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, released on Impulse! Records. It is considered one of his most well-known and influential works, showcasing his distinctive style of spiritual jazz.

The album features a prominent use of free jazz improvisation, combined with elements of gospel and modal jazz. The title track, "Moon Child," is a lengthy, expansive piece that exemplifies this blend of styles, featuring a powerful saxophone performance by Sanders alongside a rhythm section creating a driving, hypnotic groove. The album also includes other notable tracks such as "Love Will Find a Way" and "The Creator Has a Master Plan."

The album's liner notes were written by the influential journalist and writer, Nat Hentoff. The musicians involved in the recording include Pharoah Sanders (tenor saxophone), Lonnie Liston Smith (piano), and others whose contributions vary across the album's tracks. While the exact personnel can differ slightly between sources, the core players remain consistent across all tracks.

The album's impact on the development of spiritual jazz and free jazz is significant, inspiring generations of musicians. Its powerful and emotional sound continues to resonate with listeners today, cementing its place as a classic of the genre. Its legacy is found in its influence on subsequent jazz musicians, as well as its continued popularity among both jazz enthusiasts and a wider audience.