The Cry of My People cover

The Cry of My People

Archie Shepp · 1972

43 min · 8 tracks · post-bop

A powerful blend of jazz and spirituals that channels the struggles and hopes of the African American experience.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • reflective moments of spiritual depth
  • introspective listening for personal growth
  • soulful expression of cultural struggles

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeks quick, upbeat tracks
  • prefers straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1972, 'The Cry of My People' arrived during Archie Shepp's creative peak, following his acclaimed album 'Attica Blues'. This period marked a shift towards more politically charged themes in his music, aligning with the civil rights movement and reflecting his deep engagement with social issues. Shepp was increasingly recognized for blending avant-garde jazz with traditional African-American musical forms.
Stylistic neighbors
Albert Ayler· Pharoah Sanders· Ornette Coleman

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Rest Enough (Song to Mother) 4:41
  • 2 A Prayer 6:29
  • 3 All God's Children Got a Home in the Universe 2:58
  • 4 The Lady 5:31
  • 5 The Cry of My People 5:45
  • 6 African Drum Suite, Part 1 0:35
  • 7 African Drum Suite, Part 2 7:34
  • 8 Come Sunday 9:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata