Eclectic and varied studio album from American singer-songwriter Nina Simone. High Priestess Of Soul was originally recorded in 1965 and 1966, and seems to be more aware of the contemporary trends in soul music than Simone's previous outings for Philips. Many of the songs feature big band arrangements from Hal Mooney, but he's able to preserve some space for Simone to shine. There are compositions from future David Lynch collaborator Angelo Badalamenti ("I Hold No Grudge" and "He Ain't Comin' Home No More"), however Simone's more introspective material stands out from those song's more saccharine moments. Highlights include her energetic rendition of the Oscar Brown and Nat Adderley penned "Work Song," and her spiritual composition "Come Ye" where she's accompanied by only minimal percussion. Twelve tracks in all. Released by Philips on black vinyl housed in a full color replica sleeve.

• music label: Philips 2016

reviewed by Cool Hand 10/2016