Sought-after Blaxploitation soundtrack repressed! This OST was originally released in the early 70's as a promo only with an extremely small number being serviced to radio djs. Thankfully UMe has given it an official reissue here on minty vinyl with full pic sleeve. Our vintage Lab review from way way back: Rocktakon found a sealed copy a while back (pre-Pinky Ring) and promptly traded it in at Sound Library. Then he heard ?uestlove playing "Parade March" at APT and caught a case of bumpy's lament. The main draw here is "Parade March" featuring those horns and drums that Wu uses on "Pinky Ring" (also sampled by Massive Attack). JJ Johnson composed and conducted the score which, aside from sample-ability, contains a pleasing mix of instrumentals and Martha Reeves vocal tracks. Check out the title track "Willie D" for her restrained combination of power and sweetness. For more interesting bits, there's the Apache-style extended drum and conga intro on "Willie Chase" and the bass harmonica led "Passion's Dilemma." Bad stuff. 10 tracks total.

• sampled by Wu-Tang Clan for "Pink Ring"
• music label: MCA 1974 / Ume 2015

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2015