Audiopile Review: Azimuth’s 1977 self-titled debut for the ECM label has received some rather unexpected attention in recent months. Long story short, Drake sampled it. Honestly, if he had to draw attention to something in ECM’s vast back catalogue, he could hardly have picked something more appropriate. Not only is ‘Azimuth’ extremely indicative of the classic ECM sound, it’s also a phenomenal ambient-jazz masterwork. Azimuth was a trio of pianist John Taylor, vocalist Norma Winstone, and Canadian trumpeter Kenny Wheeler. The band’s small discography is filled with wonders, but the debut is a stunning, oceanic statement of intent. If your interest has been piqued by the growing cult of ECM, here is a fantastic place to take your vows. This reissue is part of the label’s Luminescence series of archival releases. Expect fresh pressings of ECM grails to drop in weeks and months to come.

Luminessence, ECM’s new audiophile vinyl-reissue series, is a kaleidoscope, shedding light on the jewels of the label’s deep catalogue in elegant, high-quality editions – audiophile vinyl pressing, high-grade tip-on gatefold sleeves that include new liner notes.

Recorded in 1977 and now reissued in ECM’s audiophile Luminessence vinyl series, the debut album of the Azimuth trio was truly ahead of its time. Formed by adding Canadian-born trumpeter Kenny Wheeler to the British duo of pianist John Taylor and vocalist Norma Winstone, the group’s futuristic musical palette embraced hypnotic, minimalistic pulse patterns, otherworldly synthesizer sounds, songs, collective improvisation and solo flights.

In recent seasons, the number of listeners under Azimuth’s sway has grown exponentially, as the music has adapted itself to new contexts. The vast international audience that has heard fragments of Azimuth’s “The Tunnel” as part of a major rap hit by Drake in 2023 (on his 200M+ streaming “IDGAF”), can now discover the original in its pristine form, still magical after all these years – as is the whole album.

Produced by Manfred Eicher, this new edition with gatefold sleeve adds liner notes detailing Azimuth’s story.