The life of Terry Callier is a redemptive tale of the constant push and pull between responsibility and doing the thing you love and believe in. He gained moderate success in the 70s and early 80s, recording and writing for notable artists such as The Dells, Jerry Butler, and Curtis Mayfield. But after gaining full-custody of his daughter in 80s, he walked away from his musical career.

He reemerged when British DJ’s in the late 80s discovered his music and began to fuse it with their underground sound of the time, Acid Jazz. By the early 90s, UK label This Is Acid Jazz contacted him regarding the remix of one of his songs, which lead to Callier traveling back and forth to Europe for music festivals and concerts, working on various labels such as Verve and the now defunct Talking Loud.

Although his foot was half only half way through door, Callier has over 16 albums under his belt and has worked with Massive Attack, 4Hero, and Koop. His new album, Hidden Conversations, which comes out later this month, is a journey through political struggles, love loss, with moody, yet melodic vocals, over atmospheric arrangements, stretching Callier’s artistry to new heights in a way that flows naturally. The song “Wings” below was co-written with Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja, who co-wrote and produced three songs on the album. Mmm, I wonder what Horace Andy is doing these days…

“Wings” from Hidden Conversations

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