Recorded in 1972 and released in 1973, Sextant is Herbie Hancock's third studio album for Columbia Records, and the last of his experimental fusion period with the Mwandishi band. The album features a dense, avant-garde sound with extended improvisations and heavy use of synthesizers, including the ARP 2600 and the string synthesizer.
The album title refers to the sextant, a navigation instrument, and the cover art was designed by artist Robert Springett. The record includes three long compositions: 'Hidden Shadows', 'Hornets', and 'You'll Know When You Get There', the latter with lyrics by Hancock and his wife Gigi. The lineup includes key musicians such as Bennie Maupin, Eddie Henderson, and Julian Priester.
Although initially met with mixed reviews due to its complexity, Sextant is now regarded as a masterpiece of jazz fusion and a turning point in Hancock's career, shortly after which he moved toward a more funk-oriented and accessible sound with the album Head Hunters.