"Zungo"

Nina Simone - "Zungo" - 1961 Personnel includes: Nina Simone (vocals); Al Shackman (guitar); Chris White (bass); Bobby Hamilton (drums). Recorded at The Village Gate, New York, New York. LIVE AT THE VILLAGE GATE captures a 1961 performance at an intimate New York club early in the singer's career. Originally released on the Colpix label, this much-acclaimed recording features Nina's androgynous, mahogany vocals alongside her classically influenced piano playing, supported by a trio of fine musicians. Simone's music defies categorization--she expertly dips into jazz, folk, blues, gospel, and then some. With her unique artistry and highly charged performances, she cuts to the core or her audience's emotions. Highlights of this set include a biting version of "The House of the Rising Sun," a shuffling version of "Just in Time," a heartbreaking "He Was Too Good to Me," an African work song "Zungo,"(Michael Olatunji) and an instrumental version of "Bye Bye Blackbird," in which her complex piano arrangement calls to mind the works of Bach. This concert still sounds as fresh and original as the night it was recorded. Note: Michael Olatunji was also featured on Max Roache's "Freedom Now Suite"! ( post I did a while ago and a great Freedom Movement LP from that era!