Thursday, April 8, 2021

Umbra Arts Collective - Voodoo Blues Poetry Opera (2021)

The Voodoo of Hell’s Half-Acre” is a multimedia theatrical presentation that chronicles the journey of Richard Wright from his migration from Mississippi to Chicago. This live presentation is comprised of a nonet (nine-piece ensemble) and features spoken word poetry, singing, saxophone, piano, upright bass and drums. This soundscape features bonus tracks, outtakes, and a 21-page color booklet. This presentation was recorded live at The Cabaret (Indianapolis, IN).

1. Movement 1: The Traveler Speaks 02:53
2. Wigwag Whistle Post 06:59
3. Movement 2: The Traveler Speaks 02:03
4. A City Speaks 06:04
5. Movement 3: The Traveler Speaks 02:03
6. Same Ol Blues 10:40
7. Movement 4: The Traveler Speaks 01:36
8. Freedom Summer 06:18
9. Movement 5: The Traveler Speaks 01:41
10. Corpus Delecti 10:45
11. Movement 6: The Traveler Speaks 01:45
12. Chicago 11:36
13. A City Speaks alternate take 07:40
14. Freedom Summer outtake 1 02:14
15. Freedom Summer outtake 2 03:05
16. Freedom Summer outtake 3 02:30
17. Freedom Summer outtake 4 02:22
18. Freedom Summer original 06:50

Lasana D. Kazembe (spoken word, librettist)
Rob Dixon (musical director, saxophone)
Kenny Phelps (drums, percussion)
Steven Jones (piano)
Brandon Meeks (bass)
Okara Imani (vocals)
Allison Victoria (vocals)
Keesha Dixon (narration, vocals)