Most of the music on this CD reissue dates from 1966-1967, featuring the unique singer-pianist Nina Simone joined by a funky rhythm section (with Eric Gale and Rudy Stevenson on guitars and organist Ernest Hayes) in addition to Buddy Lucas on tenor and harmonica; a few of the other selections utilize a larger backup group. Simone is the star throughout the blues-based material, performing fresh and emotional versions of such songs as Lil Green's "In the Dark," "My Man's Gone Now," "Since I Fell for You," and "The House of the Rising Sun." Some of Simone's original songs deal frankly with love and sex while others protest racism and poverty. Stimulating and still-timely music.