Under the guidance and direction from London-based DJ, radio broadcaster, and music producer Gilles Peterson, his reissue-focused label Arc Records has recently been diving deep into the Atlantic jazz archives, re-releasing mono versions of Max Roach’s 1968 of Members, Don’t Git Weary and Yusef Lateef’s 1969 Yusef Lateef’s Detroit Latitude 42° 30′ Longitude 83°. With the labels latest release of the series, they unearth a collection of tracks recorded by Roberta Flack in the sessions leading up to the recording of her seminal 1969 debut album First Take.

This incredible 12 track 2xLP release, titled Lost Takes, captures the legendary vocalist at her absolute best, brilliantly bringing together elements of heartfelt soul and jazz into these sessions. The recording includes different versions of classics from First Takes, as well as a remarkable cover version of Mongo Santamaria’s “Afro Blue” and the Motown anthem “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”.

Recorded over 50 years ago, this is the first time these recordings have ever been officially released on vinyl, which is pressed on heavy-weight 180g black vinyl with sleeve-notes from Harmony Holiday.

Great from start to finish, Lost Takes is easily one of the early “must-own” releases of 2024!

Roberta Flack — ‘Lost Takes’
(Arc Records)

1. This Could Be The Start Of Something
2. Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out
3. Hush-A-Bye
4. Afro Blue
5. It’s Way Past Suppertime
6. On The Street Where You Live
7. Frankie And Johnny
8. The House Song
9. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
10. The Song is Love
11. To Sir with Love
12. Groove Me

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• Jazz
• Reissue
• Soul