4.
Max Roach – We Insist! Freedom Now Suite
I had been doing a great amount of experimental vocal work when I came across this album and I was stunned. [Abbey Lincoln] starts singing, very brief phrases, the band plays solos. Roach is a clean motherfucker.
When she comes back she continues the short phrases and then builds them into screams. These are screams, not singing. Now this woman could really sing, so this is hard work for a singer.
It is sacrificial. And it is strong because there is great restraint… Her absence from the music world had to do with moving in with her mother to take care of her. That subject is never discussed because, after all, what man would be interested in discussing that which is unheard of among men? Head down, hands up, balls in, etc.
Yup, got you, pop, Athunato Koloyero [Editor’s note: "Weak Bastard" in Greek].
