LEON THOMAS レコード& CD

Review: Originally released on Flying Dutchman in 1973, Leon Thomas' Blues and the Soulful Truth is an outstanding slice of soul funk from one of the genre's all time greats. Thomas came to fame working with Pharoah Sanders on 'The Creator Has A Master Plan', but on this album he was in full flight writing his own songs, backed up by Pee Wee Ellis as a conductor and with Bob Thiele as producer. Thomas had an unflinching approach to his message, best heard on incredible cuts like 'Shape Your Mind To Die', but there's tenderness to match the toughness. Just listen to the sweetness of 'China Doll' on this long overdue reissue and take in the full spectrum of the Leon Thomas sound.

Review: American jazz vocalist and percussionist Leon Thomas recorded his debut album in 1969. Spirits of the Known & Unknown came after Thomas had spent a time playing with the great Pharoah Sanders and it shows. His unique yodel lights up each tune with a singular lyrical style and unique scat effect. He proves himself to be versatile across the tunes after his early recordings stuck strictly to free jazz and avant-garde styles. A new type of jazz singer for a new age, this album cemented Thomas' reputation. He wrote many of the tunes part from the likes of 'Song for My Father', originally by Horace Silver.