The Last Poets celebrate their 50th anniversary with Understand What Black Is. Together with , these poets were at the cradle of rap. They delivered their angry message about the social injustices in America so far to the accompaniment of funky rhythms in which percussion played a leading role. Over the years they performed in varying line-ups. Their dissatisfaction was expressed powerfully, to
… the point of evil. Meanwhile, the gentlemen have grown older and calmer. However, their identification of socially critical issues has not diminished. This time their message is accompanied by languid roots reggae, which makes things seem a lot calmer. The collaboration with London producer turns out to be a golden opportunity. Dub polish as , Michael Smith, and proven in the past that poetry and reggae are an optimal combination. The Last Poets continue on this path, releasing their best album of recent years. (AD)more
