Somalia is a strong album -- which can only enhance his reputation. Two trap drummers, in unison as well as counterpoint put down a turbulent rhythmic foundation. Harper gets primo support from trumpeter Eddie Henderson (who sounds like a different man from the mechanical one on his solo efforts). The five long tunes focus on Africa and Afrocentric spirituality; they're part of a jazz tradition that embraces Coltrane's A Love Supreme and Pharoah Sanders's Karma. Anyone who appreciates those albums will cherish Harper's updating of the concept.

-- Norman Weinstein