Belafonte brought ‘world’ music to the masses, starting with ‘Calypso.’ … By the time these two benefit concerts were performed on April 19th and 20th 1959, Belafonte had amassed a catalog of hits familiar to a wide swath of Americans. … One can argue that originals are the best but not here. No way! Unlike the original pressings mastered from 2-track mix down from the 3-track original tape, Classic Records’ reissue on both 33 1/3 and single-sided 45 RPM records and this new mastering are sourced directly from the 3-track tape. … However, while I didn’t think there was more to get from the tape than what Bernie Grundman got for Classic Records, I think Ryan K. Smith and the Sterling team have done just that, showcased by the utter black QRP backgrounds.
Act 1: The Moods of the American Negro |
Introduction – Darlin’ Cora |
Sylvie |
Cotton Fields |
John Henry |
Take My Mother Home |
The Marching Saints |
Act 2: In The Caribbean |
Day O |
Jamaica Farewell |
Man Piaba |
All My Trials |
Mama Look A Boo Boo |
Come Back Liza |
Man Smart |
Act 3: Round The World |
Hava Nageela |
Danny Boy |
Cu Cu Ru Cu Cu Paloma |
Shenandoah |
Matilda |