Roland Kirk- Volunteered Slavery-LP

Roland Kirk’s Volunteered Slavery captures the vibrant energy of his 1968 Newport Jazz Festival performance, blending live excitement with studio sessions from 1969. The title track, "Volunteered Slavery," stands out with its mix of funky rhythms, African-chanted poetry, and post-bop blues, illustrating Kirk's adventurous approach to jazz. His tribute to John Coltrane, weaving together "Lush Life," "Afro-Blue," and "Bessie's Blues," offers a thoughtful nod to one of jazz’s towering figures. Meanwhile, Kirk’s takes on popular tunes like "My Cherie Amour" and "I Say A Little Prayer" showcase his ability to reshape familiar melodies through a uniquely inventive lens. This 1969 pressing on vinyl presents those performances with a strong everyday listening quality, showing some light surface marks and paper scuffs typical for its age but nothing that should distract from the music. For anyone curious about where post-bop met soulful experimentation in the late '60s, this record offers a snapshot that’s as lively as the festival crowd itself. It’s certainly a title that’s earned its spot in a jazz collection without needing to shout over the band.

Sound samples are included to help you get a feel for the music, but they may not always match the exact pressing or track version of the record listed. When in doubt, trust the photos and pressing information - that's the actual record you're buying.