Black Unity Trio - Al Fatihah quite possibly was the first-ever independently-released free jazz record. Originating in Oberlin, Ohio as the Black Unity Quartet, and ultimately becoming the Trio (Abdul Wadud, Yusuf Mumin, and Hasan Al Hut), the group recorded Al Fatihah in December 24, 1968 at Agency Recording Studio (which was located upstairs in the building housing the legendary Agora Theatre in Cleveland, Ohio). The album ultimately was released in May 1969 in an edition of 500 copies. The album has been legendary among collectors, producers, and DJs in the past several decades, and has been sampled numerous times on other releases. Much mystery surrounded the origins of the album, as well as the status of the musicians, until 2020 when The Wire published an interview with Hasan. Many underground jazz purists know about the intense, though relatively short-lived hotbed of avant-garde jazz in Cleveland, Ohio during the mid-to-late 1960s. Clubs such as Leo's Casino, Jazz Temple, The Doan Club, Le Cave and a few private clubs saw many young avant-garde jazz acts during this time period.
Release date:
January 14, 2022
Label:
Install our app to receive notifications when new upcoming releases are added.

Recommended equipment and accessories
-
Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
-
Vinyl Care - Top Picks
A selection of accesories to keep your turntable equipment & vinyl records in the best shape
-
Vevor Ultrasonic Cleaner
Thoroughly clean and restore your vinyl records, removing dust, dirt, and grime from every groove without damaging the surface
-
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Featuring a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm, precision-tuned motor, and a heavy steel platter with TPE damping, it ensures superior stability and sound quality.
-
Pro-Ject Phono Box DC Pre-Amp
Compact, high-performance phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges, delivering a clean, detailed signal with minimal noise.
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
-
Dance Gavin Dance Pantheon (Cobalt/Orange Smush/Splatter) [2xLP]
Rise Records
September 12, 2025 -
Robin Kester Dark Sky Reserve
Memphis Industries
September 12, 2025 -
The Subways When I'm With You [2xLP]
Cooking Vinyl
October 17, 2025 -
Novembers Doom Major Arcana [2xLP]
Prophecy
September 19, 2025 -
Sam Prekop Open Close
Thrill Jockey Records
September 26, 2025 -
Runnner A Welcome Kind of Weakness (Blue)
Run For Cover
August 29, 2025 -
Arcadea The Exodus of Gravity [2xLP]
Relapse
August 22, 2025 -
Van Halen Balance (Expanded Edition) [2xLP]
Rhino/Warner Records
August 15, 2025 -
Oasis Complete Studio Album Collection [8xLP]
Big Brother Recordings Limited
August 22, 2025 -
Rhys Fulber Memory Impulse Autonomy
Artoffact Records
September 12, 2025 -
Sprints All That Is Over (Pink Marble)
Sub Pop
September 26, 2025 -
Jerskin Fendrix Once Upon A Time. . . In Shropshire (Shropspire Mud Brown) [2xLP]
Untitled (Recs)
October 10, 2025 -
Vicious Rumors The Devil's Asylum
Steamhammer
August 29, 2025 -
Orianthi Some Kind of Feeling
WOODWARD AVENUE RECORDS
September 19, 2025