This album is about living. Gil Scott's true masterpiece of soul, poetry and politics. It goes way beyond just some hip rare record. It's timeless' meant to be taken in. I've bought 4 copies over the years giving them to close friends hoping that they would find something in it. Although the entire album carries weight, side 2 is the one that really breaks the bridge. It starts with Gil Scott's biggest hit, the paradoxical dance hit about the fall of a man to alcoholism, "The Bottle." The combination of "Song for Bobby Smith" and "Your Daddy Loves You" is sweet soul defined. Take a break from your ninja turtle shell to get down to this. "H20 Gate Blues" brings dynamism to the side as a spark-lighting, spoken word piece. Less serious than "Revolution Will Not be Televised" but more subtly effective. Hyper than teen spirit. "Peace Go With You, Brother" brings us back down to the ground with the weight of Gil-Scott's voice serving like a warning. Discover the a-side for yourself. Starts off with the full version of the song that closes the album, "Peace Go With You, Brother." The original Strata East copies are drying up, so this quality reissue comes just at the right time.

• black vinyl pressing (please note: actual pressing color and packaging may differ from mock-up photo)
• includes OBI strip
• housed in gatefold jacket w/ printed inner sleeve
• original release year: 1973
• music label: Culture Factory 2025

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2005