The Pyramids

Spiritual Afro-jazz-influenced ensemble the Pyramids formed in 1971 while its members were attending Antioch College in Ohio. Originally featuring saxophonist Idris Ackamoor, flutist Margo Simmons, and bassist Kimathi Asante, the group eventually added several members, including various percussionists and, at one point, two bassists. Inspired by such artists as Sun Ra and pianist Cecil Taylor, the latter of whom taught at Antioch during the '70s, the Pyramids mixed African rhythms, free jazz, and even a touch of psychedelic soul. The group toured extensively, relocated to San Francisco, and released three albums, including 1973's Lalibela, 1974's King of Kings, and 1976's Birth, Speed, Merging before it disbanded in 1977. In 2010, the Pyramids reunited for a tour in support of their complete catalog's reissue campaign. ~ Matt Collar