HIGHWAY OF DIAMONDS-BLACK AMERICA SINGS BOB DYLAN

Description

Ace's small but ever-expanding "Black America Sings..." series has been quiet lately, but it's back in action this month with the double vinyl and CD release of "Highway Of Diamonds" – a new exploration of Bob Dylan's catalog, reinterpreted by some of the greatest African American artists of the 20th century. From his early days, Dylan's lyrics and music left their mark on Black American music. "Blowin' In The Wind," for example, spoke to an America still largely in the grip of segregation and became an anthem for everyone, regardless of color or creed. As his career progressed, the number of covers of his songs increased, particularly thanks to what could be called "non-traditional" sources, like those found here. The 20 tracks on "Highway Of Diamonds" continue the story begun on the compilation "How Many Roads," with an almost entirely renewed selection of artists lending their voices to some of the finest compositions of the 20th century, and an almost entirely different selection of songs (with the exception of "Blowin' In The Wind," which links the two compilations). Big names in soul, gospel, and jazz, timeless songs, and for many, a new way to appreciate timeless classics make "Highway Of Diamonds" as essential a purchase as its predecessor. As always, the exceptional audio quality is complemented by a beautifully illustrated box set, available on CD and double vinyl, with a multitude of illustrations and detailed, track-by-track commentary by Ace Records legend Tony Rounce.