Thursday, February 18, 2021

Livin' on a High Note, Mavis Staples

It's Black Music month!

Livin' on a High Note, Mavis Staples, 2016, :38

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Mavis is an American treasure. She was 77 when she recorded this amazing album and still shows the energy and urgency of many of the young people. Still testifying that bluesy spiritual soul with lung power to rival any of the classic belters.  And she still has a smooth croon, as well.  What's more, these songs are important — they're about freedom and history and rising up and conquering hate. Favorites: "Love and Trust," "Tomorrow," "History, Now."

Apart From the Crowd, Great Buildings

Apart From the Crowd , Great Buildings, 1981, :40 ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ Solid jangle-pop from a now largely-forgotten group featuring two guys who went ...