Gil Scot-Heron: Be sure to read all instructions before listening / experiencing!

Joanna Newsom Have One On Me came in the mail just yesterday. Nice box packaging, and lots of song craft on the triple vinyl. I’ve always enjoyed her earlier work: MilkEyed Mender, Ys and Y’s Street Band. I’m liking the new material, too. Again, Newsom proves to be a strong songsmith, easily blending harp, piano and various instrumentation with her soft vocals.

Gil Scott-Heron I’m New Here: Scott-Heron has been releasing his brand of spoken word, political commentary/soul music since 1970. The title of this work captures what’s going on: sounds and rhythms that are solidly contemporary. In other words, Scott-Heron is now and quite compelling.

I got the double vinyl and found myself reading the liner notes / listening instructions to the syncopation of the Scott-Heron tune “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” – with the groove playing in my mind.

Here’s what they say:

LISTEN FOR THE FIRST TIME UNDER OPTIMUM CONDITIONS.

Not in your car or on a portable player through a headset.

Take it home.

Get rid of distractions, (even her or him).

Turn off your cell phone.

Turn off everything that rings or beeps or rattles or whistles.

Make yourself comfortable.

Play your LP.

LISTEN all the way through.

Think about what you got.

Think about who would appreciate this investment.

Decide if there is someone to share this with.

Turn it on again.

Enjoy yourself.

I did as the instructions said, and I’m glad for doing so!

Jimi Hendrix “Valleys Of Neptune” 45-rpm single. It’s unbelievable that there’s “new” Hendrix in 2010. But in my hands I hold new Hendrix vinyl. I have enjoyed so much Hendrix music, I can truly say that he’s made my life better. This little 7″ is cool and it’s quite a novelty to hear a new Hendrix tune like “Valleys of Neptune.” The B side is “Cat Talking To Me.” It’s the original Experience with Mitch Mitchell on vocals! This cover features Hendrix’s painting. The release is a little dish for big fans!