Moon Man

Recorded in 1970 for the Kapp label, Moon Man represents a radical departure for Charles Lloyd following the dissolution of his world-famous quartet. Moving away from the Atlantic Records sound that defined his 1960s success, Lloyd embraced a more eclectic, rock-influenced palette that incorporated electric keyboards, theremin, and vocals. The record is a product of its time, heavily influenced by the social unrest of the Vietnam War era and the fading echoes of the Summer of Love. While critics at the time were baffled - Billboard notably categorized it as a 'Pop' album - it has since become a cult object for fans of 'out' jazz and psychedelic fusion. The inclusion of Ned Doheny and the Jenkins brothers brings a folk-rock sensibility to tracks like 'I Don’t Care What You Tell Me,' while the nine-minute 'Heavy Karma' showcases a darker, more experimental side of Lloyd’s composition. It remains one of the most unique and overlooked entries in his extensive catalog.