Attica Blues
Context
"Attica Blues" is the title piece of Archie Shepp's album recorded in New York from January 24 to 26, 1972 for Impulse!, in reference to the Attica prison revolt. Shepp composed the music, to lyrics by Beaver Harris. The record uses a large ensemble: brass, reeds, rhythm section, vocalists and two narrators. AllMusic sees it as one of his most successful large-ensemble projects.
In the genealogy of jazz
This track belongs to Free jazz. Among the origins and influences of Free jazz: Tristano School, Bebop (Minton's, Monroe's), Modal.