The Impressions
This Is My Country (The Impressions) 1968
The Young Mods' Forgotten Story (The Impressions) 1970

Even today, the two album titles are bold and strong, socially aware declarations of power and struggle. Mayfield would go on to use this blueprint, spreading the gospel, as a solo artist on dozens of acclaimed albums during the 70s. .

On these lesser known Impressions albums, Mayfield was able to be upfront about social issues for the first time in songs like "This Is My Country" and "Mighty, Mighty, Spade And Whitey". At the same time, the songs were filled with optimism and the lavish soulful productions portray a warm, positive happy/sad vibe.

Politically aware lyrics, a knockout groovy beat, the voice of an angel and plush orchestration, every track on these two albums gel together to create a seamless journey through the many struggles and despair that riddles mankind. Beautifully crafted and melancholic with a soothing touch that offers reassurance and hope. The music effortlessly creates a powerful emotional bond between the listener and it's creator that words could only demean.

The stand out track is the title track, 'The Young Mods' Forgotten Story'. A bold, sharp, climatic groove that packs a hearty punch in just two riveting minutes. I'm not even sure if this track is specifically about Mod culture or whether Curtis is just labelling 'Mods' as a generic term for any youth culture. Even so, the uplifting energetic pace and 'in yer face' feel make this the perfect anthem for any discerning Mod.

"They don't know every brother is a leader and they don't every sister is a breeder" from the exquisite "They Don't Know" is about the struggle for equality between races more than between sexes.

"Choice of Colours" is just oh so, drop down on your knees in despair, beautiful with a capital B. It will make you wanna cry.

"If you had the choice of colours, which one would you choose my brothers? If there was no day or night, which one would you prefer to be right?".

Sung with such effortlessness aplomb, it's amazing how much soul, emotion and meaning can be gleamed from a simple song that challenges the absurdities of racism. These words are as relevant now as the day they were written.

Both these albums portray Mayfield's amazing skills as a lead vocalist, songwriter and arranger. Moving love songs and provocative message tracks that challenge people to address their prejudices sung by a man with a heart of gold and the vision of a prophet.

Only a genius could put these complex feelings and issues across in such a simple and subtle way using the restricted format of a three-minute pop song.

Like most things Curtis Mayfield recorded in his lifetime these two albums, collected here onto one CD by Castle Music, are uplifting, reverential and inspirational items for every record collection. Essential.