Perhaps a bit more conscious of contemporary soul trends than her previous Philips albums, this is still very characteristic of her mid-'60s work in its eclectic mix of jazz, pop, soul, and some blues and gospel. Hal Mooney directs some large band arrangements for the material on this LP without submerging
Simone's essential strengths. The more serious and introspective material is more memorable than the good-natured pop selections here. The highlights are her energetic vocal rendition of the
Oscar Brown/
Nat Adderley composition "Work Song" and her spiritual composition "Come Ye," on which
Simone's inspirational vocals are backed by nothing other than minimal percussion. [
High Priestess of Soul was re-released on LP in 2016.] ~ Richie Unterberger