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This compilation of three live LP's from Simone's RCA period showcases her at her very best. A child prodigy whose career began with recordings for jazz label Bethlehem, including an early hit single with her rendition of Gershwin's "I Loves You Porgy". By the time of these recordings Simone was already well established having released countless albums throughout the sixties and had also become well respected as a composer. 'Black Gold' was released in 1970, and has gained legendary status mainly through its inclusion of "Young, Gifted & Black", one of her best and most lasting songs. Other highlights include two versions of "Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair", one sung by Simone herself, the other showing the relaxed nature of the live date by allowing guitarist Emile Latimer to take lead vocals. 1972's 'Emergency Ward' is an album representative of its time, the politics of the time dominate the cover art, with newspaper headlines questioning the foreign policy of the US government, a subject just as relevent today. Only half the original album was live and that material is included here, two George Harrison covers are notable, "My Sweet Lord" is part of the opening medley, while "Isn't It A Pity" closes this section of the album. 'It Is Finished' was her last LP for RCA, it is also in reflection a farewell to militancy and to America as she would soon shift to the Barbados. The album features some brilliant songs, a tribute to Bessie Smith, "Sugar In My Bowl" stands out, as does a wonderful reading of "Mr Bojangles" and an incredible verison of Hoyt Axton's "The Pusher". Soon after Simone would enter another stage of her always provocative life, spending much time in Africa before settling in France. These three albums have stood the test of time well, and document one of the greatest of all live performers at her very best. Recommended.
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