Naomi Beckwith

The Freedom Principle works at once as a vivid exhibit catalogue and as a compelling introduction to the glorious pride, unity, and freedoms of the AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians)
Experimental Music and the African American Artists of 1960s Chicago.
The book soars when it opens up to Works 1, 2, and 3, while the essays and conversations move between erudite and boring to informative, exciting, and historical, all with an invitation to read, hear, see, and learn more.
Artworks are beautifully reproduced, along with creative compilations of classic artist and musician photographs.

George Lewis' highly recommended A POWER STRONGER THAN ITSELF will hopefully unlock even more of the daily lives of the musicians, their inspirations and support, and the humor and compassion which so often infused their rehearsals and conversations. As well, maybe Mr. Lewis evaluates the impact of emerging Black Rock Music on 60s Experimental Music young audiences.

The Freedom Principle is a perfect addition to the Reading List of Chicago "Hometown" President Barack Obama.
A follow-up volume showing the paintings, artworks, and installations on display during the MOCA Exhibit and photographs of the performances with an accompanying CD would be welcomed.

((Odd that the ending Chronology does not include the assassination of John F. Kennedy nor the start and end of The War in Vietnam, both of which had pivotal impacts on African Americans.
As well, it is good to remember that Mark Clark was murdered with Fred Hampton.))… (mais)