Leon Thomas might not be a household name in jazz, but you’ve likely heard his voice if you’re a fan of Pharoah Sanders. Thomas was the vocalist and percussionist on Pharoah’s 1969 spiritual classic Karma and his signature yodel can be heard prominently on “The Creator Has A Master Plan.” Blues and the Soulful Truth is Thomas’ 1972 vocal masterpiece on Bob Thiele’s Flying Dutchman label. The depth and dimension of Thomas’ vocal ability is on full display here as he delivers soulful melodies, yodels, imitates instruments, and maneuvers through jazz and blues numbers including the now-classic “Shape Your Mind to Die” which features an incredible eastern-influenced arrangement from Alfred “Pee Wee” Ellis.