This 1969 release captures Horace Tapscott leading a quintet through a set of his own challenging compositions, a definitive statement of his independent spirit and rigorous musical vision. The intensity of the performances, particularly from the leader and alto saxophonist Gary Bartz, makes this a landmark of West Coast spiritual jazz.
- The album was recorded on January 20, 1969, at Columbia Records' studio in New York City.
- Flying Dutchman Records was founded by Bob Thiele, a producer known for his work with John Coltrane and Charles Mingus.
- The Giant Is Awakened features compositions by Tapscott, including the extended title track and the searching "Tam-Tam-Bah."
Horace Tapscott was a pianist, composer, and bandleader from an artistic family in New York City, known for his deeply felt, spiritual approach to jazz. The Giant Is Awakened, recorded in 1969, found him leading a quintet at a moment of intense creative output and community involvement in Los Angeles.
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