Carlos Garnett – Cosmos Nucleus

Cosmos Nucleus is a 1976 album by saxophonist Carlos Garnett, released on Muse Records. The record features a large ensemble with Garnett’s tenor saxophone at the centre, backed by horns, percussion, electric piano, guitar and bass. The compositions blend modal jazz, spiritual jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, pushing toward a cosmic, expansive sound while retaining rhythmic drive and ensemble interplay.

Across tracks like “Cosmos Nucleus,” “Wise Old Man,” “Mystery of Ages,” and “Bed-Stuy Blues,” there’s a balance between structured charts and open solo space—Garnett’s fiery solos soar but are grounded in rich ensemble support. The album feels grand in scope yet warm in execution, highlighting both spiritual ambition and the human pulse of jazz.

Reviews

“Garnett’s blazing solos and stepping-out of his 26-piece ensemble still burn with the heat of their own creation.” — ukvibe

“Carlos garnett really finds his own sound here — and steps into a wonderful blend of funky riffs, spiritual styles, and more — all in one of the most ambitious albums he cut during the 70s!” — Dusty Groove