The passing of the great Gene McDaniels prompted a revisit to a pivotal jazz record, Les McCann and Eddie Harris’s Swiss Movement, an album that served as an entry point into jazz for many and highlighted the brilliance of Blue Note Records artists. This live album, featuring the electrifying track “Compared To What,” captured a moment in time and continues to resonate today. Let’s delve into the story of this iconic song and its powerful performance.
The Genesis of “Compared To What”
Written by Gene McDaniels in 1967 (credited as Gene Daniels in the original article, corrected to Gene McDaniels for accuracy), “Compared To What” first gained recognition through Roberta Flack’s rendition on her debut album, First Take. Flack’s version is notable for its groovy rhythm, compelling bassline, and sharp horn arrangements that underscored the song’s potent message. However, it was Les McCann and Eddie Harris who truly ignited the song’s protest spirit. The original article mentions Les McCann presenting the LP, which highlights his central role in this project.
Swiss Movement and Montreux 1969: A Cultural Flashpoint
Fast forward to 1969, the newly established Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland became the stage for a historic musical collaboration. This was a period of significant global unrest. The Civil Rights Movement was actively challenging racial inequality in the United States, and the Vietnam War raged on, fueling widespread dissent. Amidst a wave of Black Power and Black Consciousness music, “Compared To What” emerged as a particularly potent voice of protest. The song’s raw lyrics, penned by McDaniels, directly addressed the social and political issues of the time, and McCann and Harris amplified this message through their impassioned performance.
Enduring Message and Universal Resonance
The lyrics of “Compared To What” remain strikingly relevant even today. The song critiques societal hypocrisy, political deception, and the pursuit of materialistic values over genuine human connection. Whether performed by Brian Auger, The Roots with John Legend, or Les McCann and Eddie Harris, the core message of questioning societal norms and demanding authenticity transcends time. The song urges listeners to critically assess the world around them and ask, “Compared to what are we measuring our values and actions?”
Legacy of Swiss Movement: A Jazz Landmark
The decision to unite the Les McCann Trio and the Eddie Harris Quartet at Montreux proved to be a stroke of genius. Joined by Benny Baily on trumpet, Donald Dean on drums, and Leroy Vinnegar on bass, the combined ensemble created musical history. Swiss Movement became synonymous with this groundbreaking live performance of “Compared To What.” While Gene McDaniels crafted the original protest song, it was this performance, punctuated by Les McCann’s fervent vocal delivery and ad-libs including the now-iconic “God Damn It,” that solidified its place as an all-time protest anthem. This collaboration not only became a jazz milestone but also a cultural touchstone, proving the enduring power of music to reflect and challenge society.
In conclusion, “Compared To What,” as performed by Les McCann and Eddie Harris on Swiss Movement, is more than just a song; it’s a cultural artifact that continues to speak truth to power. Gene McDaniels’ words, amplified by the dynamic performance at Montreux, ensure that the song’s message will resonate for generations to come.
