Water from an Ancient Well by South African pianist Abdullah Ibrahim was first released in 1986. It went on to be included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. Water From An Ancient Well features the pianist/composer with a very strong septet. Such superior musicians as tenor saxophonist Ricky Ford, altoist Carlos Ward, baritonist Charles Davis, and trombonist Dick Griffin are heard at their most creative and emotional on these eight Ibrahim originals. Many of the melodies (particularly "Mandela," "Song for Sathima," "Water From an Ancient Well," and the beautiful "The Wedding") are among Ibrahim's finest compositions.