I’ve chosen Hugh Mundell’s album Time and Place for my Crucial Selection. It’s beautiful, powerful and affecting.
Hugh Mundell was still a teenager in 1980 when he released this, his second album, and his divine vocals shine through along with the conviction of his lyrics. The album was co-produced by the legendary Augustus Pablo. What a collaboration!
I love the diversity of tracks on this album. I feel like I’m being drawn into a spiritual realm right from the beginning with the first few bars of the title track, which are uplifting and gorgeous. Then the poignant lyrics, heavy basslines, intense horns and soaring melodica mean I’m skanking or swaying to the rest of the tunes.
Many of them share themes around justice, resistance, unity and hope, such as the mighty “Great Tribulation”. Then there’s “Feeling Alright Girl”, which always gives me goosebumps. The whole thing is a meditative experience and one that commands to be turned up loud and played with the lights low.
This album is firmly entwined with my memories of living in London and going to sound system sessions that sustained and uplifted me each week. To hear these tunes played by the selectors at these dances conveyed to me the meaning and importance Hugh Mundell holds in the foundation of roots music. I always loved how the vibe went to the next level when one of his tunes were dropped. That’s why Time and Place is without a doubt a Crucial Selection!
