This Is Madness

Generally recognised as one of the first ever rap groups, The Last Poets' groundbreaking fusion of minimalist African beats with uncompromising lyrics dealing with life in the ghetto, civil rights and social injustice caused a major sensation when their eponymous debut album made the U.S. Top Ten album chart in 1970. The group's militant message and delivery, coupled with their support for The Black Panthers, made them highly controversial at the time leading to their second album, 1971's This Is Madness, being placed on Richard Nixon's Counter-Intelligence programming list. Their pioneering sound continues to influence today's funk and hip-hop scenes, with their mark being heard on countless black musicians over the years. This 2CD set features the band's first two albums packaged in a double jewel case. It also includes 3 bonus tracks that Jalal Mansur Nuriddin from the band recorded under the name Lightnin' Rod for the Hustler's Convention album, including Doriella Du Fontaine which features Jimi Hendrix on guitar. "Polemic poetry, signposting rap. Strong, angry, provocative... full of strident, jazz infused, congas-driven chants and cutting humour" - 4/5 Mojo