Straight Ahead

Released in 1961 Straight Ahead is very much a document of its time, capturing the spirit of the rising civil rights movement. But in a real sense, it transcends its era by virtue of Lincoln’s visceral performances and the artistic substance of its music overall. Backed by a phenomenal band including drummer (and future husband) Max Roach, saxophonists Coleman Hawkins and Eric Dolphy and trumpeter Booker Little, Lincoln embraces her songs with palpable feeling and an unerring sense of drama. She combines a cabaret artist’s sophistication with the down-home fervor of a gospel singer on “When Malindy Sings” and “In the Red.” “Blue Monk,” “Retribution” and the title number draw upon Lincoln’s growing talents as a lyricist to mix personal confession with larger social and political implications. Lincoln’s impeccable players shine individually, with Hawkins’ incisive sax solo on “Left Alone” and Dolphy’s ethereal flute lines on “African Lady” casting an especially potent spell. This is music for an unfolding struggle, meant to both inspire and shatter illusions.