Not since Johnny Cash bumped into Rick Rubin have we been so excited about a comeback record. In what will surely be regarded as one of the year's best albums, Gil Scott-Heron's I'm New Here is a project that's been four years in the making – ever since XL boss Richard Russell tracked him down at Rikers Island prison and offered to produce a new LP.
The result is an album that touches on many genres, from hip-hop and gospel to dubstep and blues. Above all, though, is the unmistakable sound of Gil Scott-Heron. His is a voice that suits age, be that on the feral blues of New York Is Killing Me or the redemptive, folk-flavoured title track (a cover of a Smog song, indie fans).
The guardian.co.uk/music team have fallen in love with I'm New Here. But we'd like to know what you make of the record, too, which is why we teamed up with XL to bring you this exclusive widget. Feel free to let us know what you think. Rosie Swash spoke to XL boss Richard Russell recently, and will be popping on to the comments section to impart her wisdom from time to time.
