“There is no one like Gil Scott-Heron in music. he has always been controversial, and always said things that were uncomfortable for some. Gil is one of a kind. and to anyone who values honesty in music, to hear him uncut is special.”

– Richard Russell, head of XL Records, via his Twitter

Music needs events, and a Gil Scott-Heron comeback, while not on the scale of a new Jay-Z album, is definitely a welcome one. In fact, Jay-Z wouldn’t exist without Scott-Heron, who arguably helped create rap with his groundbreaking track from 1970,  “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.” Scott-Heron’s soulful spoken-word style, outspoken lyrics, jazzy flow and funky percussion created a foundation for hip-hop; his combination of political poetry and rhythm influenced everyone from Chuck D to KRS-One, and he’s even collaborated with rappers like Blackalicious.

While he’s no Sly Stone when it comes to reclusiveness and addiction issues, Heron has seen his own share of troubles. His oft-radical politics have kept him controversial, and he’s had his share of drug problems, having spent time in jail for cocaine possession. But his influence has kept his legacy alive, so it was not without some small excitement that news of a new album had hit the Interweb. This time, to honor the spirit of the moment, however, the revolution was tweeted: Richard Russell, the owner of XL Recordings, who will be putting out Scott-Heron’s new material, revealed its existence via his Twitter account. Not only did he break the news, he also posted an extensive preview of the comeback record, which can be heard here. It sounds like classic Gil Scott-Heron, with the occasional retrofitting for modern tastes: there’s the poetic flavor, the spoken-word truth telling, the jazzy, smoky backgrounds, but also a heaping helping of contemporary hip-hop influenced beats and electronica grooves. Not surprisingly, he sounds great over the modern grooves – especially considering he had no small part in originating them. So welcome back, Gil – these times need you.