Every so often I come across a soul record that blows my head off. The first time I heard Trying To Survive was one of those days. Stop you in your tracks poignant and soulful lyrics over some of the funky grooves you will ever hear.
Originally released by James Thorpe on his Magic Touch label in Chicago Illinois, the original pressing of this super rare funky soul 45 has fetched up to $2000 in recent years.
Rarity aside, it's the lyrics that do it for me. It sounds like it was released back in the 70's so it's sad to think some 40+ years they still make sense today.
Trackdown, a more Northern sounding cut, maintains the quality on the b side.
The reissue that came out earlier this year is virtually sold out in the shops, but Juno Records have just had a restock. A must-have for all soul lovers that don't want to shell out for the original (that's if they can find one).
http://www.juno.co.uk/products/harvey-scales-trying-to-survive-1-per/546877-01/
