One of the coolest records ever issued on
Galt MacDermot's legendary Kilmarnock label – a selection of songs and poems by Harlem school children, set to music by
Galt, and sung by vocalist Angela Ortega! Given that
Galt's handling the music, you can bet that there's plenty of nicely funky touches at the bottom – supported by rolling bass, snapping drums, and nice use of organ. But the real charm of the tunes comes from the lyrics, which have a simple and to the point way of dealing with issues of racism, poverty, drugs, and other issues of the time. There's a very groovy feel here that almost reminds us of the best of Schoolhouse Rock at times – except that the lyrics are perhaps even more pointed, and surprisingly gripping after all these years. Titles include "Black Is Beautiful", "Drugs", "Slums", "Evil Hands", "Cry Sound", and "Set Us Free".
(2023 Black Friday Europe release.)