Between 1971 and 1975, Oakland's Black Jazz Records carved out a small but incandescent catalogue. Founded by pianist Gene Russell and percussionist Dick Schory, the label moved with intent, foregrounding artists who folded spiritual jazz into funk grit and soul poise without sanding off the edges. This anthology distils that charge. The Awakening's 'Mode For D.D.' opens with modal insistence and streetwise propulsion. Doug Carn's 'Higher Ground' refracts Stevie Wonder through devotional keys and lifted vocals. Rudolph Johnson's 'The Highest Pleasure' leans into raw tenor cry, while Walter Bishop Jr's 'Coral Keys' glows with hard-bop clarity touched by groove.