“New Grass was remarkably unsuccessful, scorned by Albert Ayler fans and critics alike. We can’t recommend this record highly enough, and are confident that it won’t take but one listen for you to understand New Grass is an undeniable healing force.” - Third Man Records

It’s true, everyone hated this record in 1968. But shone through a 21st century prism, New Grass sparkles in an entirely new light. Shock therapy opener “Message From Albert” slices you wide open, allowing for the overtly soulful “New Generation” and “Sun Watcher” to seep in. The remaining tracks are all over the place, deploying space echo, inspirational vocal passages, JB-level breakbeats and funky basslines for a highly invigorating long play session. Not to mention the cover design, definite contender for top 5 Impulse sleeves. Most reissue labels wouldn’t touch this one with a fifty foot pole; respek to Third Man for serving it up and for keeping the signature orange spine intact (almost everyone gets this wrong).

• black vinyl pressing
• housed in repro gatefold sleeve w/ original liner notes
• first time on vinyl since 1976
• featuring Albert Ayler (t. sax), Seldon Powell (t. sax, flute), Buddy Lucas (b. sax), Garnett Brown (trombone), Burt Collins (t), Joe Newman (t),  Call Cobbs (p), Bill Folwell (b), Pretty Purdie (d)
• music label: Third Man Records 2020

reviewed by nick nightingale 07/2020