Lincoln, Abbey – “Straight Ahead” – [Candid]

A stunning 1961 session – Abbey Lincoln baring her soul, accompanied by an all-star cast: Max Roach on drums, Coleman Hawkins and Eric Dolphy on reeds, Mal Waldron on piano, Julia Priester on trombone, Booker Little on trumpet, Art Davis on bass and more.

Lincoln had recently rescued herself from management that tried to pretty up her singing and told her not to “sound like a Negro”. The album features her voice with all its rough and emotional edges. Very affecting must-listen.