Eric Mercury - Electric Blackman (1969) Hi-Res

Thumping production and a distinct voice make this a perplexing listen. How is this album so unknown? Earthless is a conciousness altering psych track, and I'd argue his rendition of Hurdy Gurdy Man is definitive. Electric Black Man will primarily appeal to fans of soul music, but psychedelic enthusiasts should also give this a listen.

This is really great, varied soul with lots of funk and psych flourishes throughout the track listing. "Hurdy Gurdy Man" is covered very well, although funnily enough it seems to have left all of the psychedelic elements found in the original song behind. It's well done, nonetheless. Eric Mercury has a no-nonsense, raspy voice that's backed by an incredibly tight band. Boy do those drums hit hard when they need to. Typical for soul albums of this era, string and horn arrangements are also abound, and they are done tastefully. Definitely check out this album if you are into classic late 60s soul.