Super Nova

A landmark in Wayne Shorter’s catalog, Super Nova hints at the musical direction he would explore in the 1970s, including work with Weather Report. Rather than a straight fusion session, the album brings together an expansive ensemble, balancing an electric edge with a spiritual soul-jazz undercurrent. John McLaughlin and Sonny Sharrock contribute distinctive guitar work, joined by Walter Booker on classical guitar, Miroslav Vitous on bass, Jack DeJohnette on drums and Airto on percussion. Maria Booker adds vocals to “Dindi.” The rich group sound sets this apart from Shorter’s earlier Blue Note quartet and quintet recordings. Highlights include “Super Nova,” “Swee Pea,” “Water Babies” and “Capricorn.”