Laura Nyro * Christmas & The Beads Of Sweat - 140gm Clear Vinyl LP

Originally released in 1970, 'Christmas & The Beads Of Sweat' is the fourth studio album from Laura Nyro & one of the defining records of her remarkable early career. Blending soul, R&B, jazz, gospel & singer-songwriter influences, it captures Nyro at the height of her powers as a songwriter, pianist & vocalist. The album's two sides have distinct musical identities. The first five tracks feature the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, bringing a deep Southern soul feel to songs including "Brown Earth", "Been On A Train" & Nyro's soulful interpretation of Gerry Goffin & Carole King's "Up On The Roof". The second side moves into more expansive & spiritual territory, with Alice Coltrane on harp & an all-star cast that includes Duane Allman, Cornell Dupree, Chuck Rainey & Ralph MacDonald. Produced by Arif Mardin & Felix Cavaliere, 'Christmas & The Beads Of Sweat' followed the acclaimed 'Eli & The Thirteenth Confession' & 'New York Tendaberry', completing a remarkable run of albums that established Nyro as one of the most distinctive & adventurous American songwriters of her generation. From the driving "Brown Earth" & "Beads Of Sweat" to the expansive "Map To The Treasure" & the deeply personal "Christmas In My Soul", this is a rich & emotionally charged album that remains a cornerstone of Laura Nyro's catalogue.