Pharoah's Thembi stands out as one of his most accessible albums. Recorded at The Record Plant, which was renowned for hosting iconic sessions like Hendrix's Electric Ladyland, the LP boasts a lush, atmospheric sound. The studio's history includes a heroic tape rescue during a 1978 fire which preserved invaluable recordings such as this. Lonnie Liston Smith's debut on the Fender Rhodes sparked the track 'Astral Travelling,' into life but was criticised by some at the time as "easy listening" compared to Pharoah's more intense works. Yet, its serene vibe offers a refreshing departure that showcases Pharoah's versatility and the album's enduring appeal.