For the People

A key funk release from 1971, For The People was the 2nd album by interracial soul-rock band led by vocalist Milt Matthews. All the way from Wilson, North Carolina, Milton Ray Matthews was an inspired songwriter in the vein of master Curtis Mayfield and follower Lou Bond. With a series of excellent cover version – BB King ‘The Thrill Is Gone’, The Beatles ‘A Hard Days’ Night’ (stylistically related to the acid r&b Stax records was in charge at the time) and Blind Faith ‘Presence Of The Lord’ - the record is full of acid-blues chops and sensuous numbers. Filling the gap between modern psychedelia and afro-american consciousness, For The People literally ascend to the title of black tinged rock opera.