As new music goes, Gil Scott Heron’s I’m New Here is as human as it gets. While Gil, known best for his outspoken and biting social criticism in the ’70s, could have addressed the political turmoil that is our modern climate, instead he turns inward, and bears his soul. The work that emerges is the portrait of a man who’s lived a long and difficult life, finding himself alienated by, yet deeply invested in the world around him. XL founder Richard Russell’s spare, electronic arrangements are juxtaposed with Gil’s coarse vocals, taking songs from Robert Johnson and Bobby Bland to places they’ve never been. I could go on, but I won’t. The album is brilliant, and this song is crazy. Pay the man.
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
2 Comments
I already did! As a lifelong resident of the Big Apple, I know how hard it is to admit the effects of city life. New York is indeed, killing us! Scott-Heron has given us a stark message to heed. “I’m New Here” will surprise and maybe turn off some of his fans, but his message is as timely as ever. Most of this is spoken word, but cuts to the core. “On Coming From A Broken Home” is equally effective in all its sparse instrumentation. Once again, you guys are right on time!
Thanks for the insight Lee. Much appreciated as always. Personally I’m new to Gil Scott but I look forward to hearing more from him.
On another note. I like how this song develops as the song goes on.