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Your Stars

Candid Records reissues classic 1961 albums

By JORDANNAH ELIZABETH

Special to the AmNews

The New York City-based record label Candid Records has re-released a number of classic Black albums. Founded in 1960 by Archie Bleyer, Candid was on the cutting edge of releasing jazz and blues music from Charles Mingus, Max Roach, Cecil Taylor, Abbey Lincoln, Lightnin’ Hopkins and more. The label’s catalog is extensive and, due to the resurgence of vinyl and interest in jazz, Candid has chosen to re-issue albums from their golden era which took place primarily in 1961 and 1962.

Max Roach’s “We Insist!,” Max Roach - 1961

An avant-garde masterpiece, a vocal-instrumental suite, a work of collective improvisation, directly addressing the racial and political issues of its day, “We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite” is one of the most important artistic statements of the Civil Rights Movement and one of the most groundbreaking jazz albums of all time.—Candid

“Charles Mingus Presents Charles Mingus,” Charles Mingus - 1961

The combo here, referred to by Mingus as The Jazz Workshop, had been in residence at the Showplace on W. 4th St. in Greenwich Village for nearly a year when they entered the studio to record what became the album “Charels Mingus Presents Charles Mingus” in October of 1961.—Candid

“Straight Ahead,” Abbey Lincoln - 1961

Abbey Lincoln’s distinctive vocal style, thought-provoking writing, and spirited personality has secured her a place among the jazz greats. Though she made her first recording for Riverside, and later in life for Verve, it was with the young and audacious Candid Records that she made her biggest musical statement, 1961’s “Straight Ahead.”—Candid

“Lightnin’ in New York,” Lightnin’ Hopkins - 1961

Recorded November 15, 1960 at the Nola Penthouse Sound Studios in New York, “Lightnin’ In New York” captures the legendary bluesman in classic form, including some rare solos on the piano.—Candid

“Otis Spann Is the Blues,” Otis Spann - 1961

Perhaps best known for his long association with the legendary Muddy Waters, Otis Spann is largely recognized as one of the greatest blues pianists of all time.—Candid

The evolution of contemporary jazz and blues has been supported by the foundational music that, many times, has become lost in history. Candid’s decision to release groundbreaking music from the 1960s shows a revelatory grace and effort to share the music of the past with a new generation of listeners. The music of these artists should never be taken for granted but revered as historical gems where preservation becomes the main goal. The reissue of these albums will also inspire listeners to dig into the vast catalogs of these incredible artists.

Candid has given jazz and blues lovers a gift that will in turn be passed down to the Black youth of America.

Solange Knowles commissioned to compose for New York City Ballet

By JORDANNAH ELIZABETH

Special to the AmNews

It has been reported that Solange Knowles has been commissioned to compose a score for the New York City Ballet. It was announced on Aug. 15 that the talented songwriter who previously created works for the Guggenheim will create original music in collaboration with choreographer Gianna Reisen. Reisen became the youngest choreographer to work with NYCB in 2017. The music will be composed for a chamber ensemble.

The ballet piece, which is currently untitled, will premiere at Lincoln Center on Sept. 28 for the NYCB’s Fashion Gala.

“Her music for Reisen will be her debut in ballet, which was formative for her as a child in Houston. She saw Lauren Anderson, a pioneering Black principal dancer at Houston Ballet,” writes The New York Times.

Knowles, the sister of Beyoncé, has been celebrated for taking a different route than her mega-pop star sibling. She is a true artisan who has worked in musical installations in the art world. Her gift and visionary approach to sound and music has created buzz around the world, attaining acknowledgment as an interesting creator in her own right.

This new work follows her 2019 work “Bridge-s,” which was performed at Los Angeles’ Getty Center along with her 2019 album “When I Get Home” which was accompanied by a triumphant film.

New York City is proud to support and celebrate the unique gifts of Solange who in no uncertain terms has given the high art world offerings that are undeniably unique, powerful and will stand the test of time. Solange, 36, has years of creative innovation ahead of her. Her current explorations are just the beginning of a long career and are foundational to the forward-movement of the Black Art Movement.