Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Mavis Staples of the Staples Singers is also a celebrated equal rights activist. She's led sing-alongs, sat in at lunch-counter protests, and performed at inaugural parties for presidents Kennedy, Carter and Clinton. She's even marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This intimate live album was recorded on June 23rd, 2008 at Chicago's famed blues club The Hideout, and Staples has since declared Hope At the Hideout a celebration of hope validated. Fittingly, she opens with a soulful rendition of Buffalo Springfield's "For What It's Worth." Pushing 70 here, Staples is obviously not hitting all the high notes she once could with ease, but her fevered phrasing, stellar song selections and richly seasoned voice make up for it. Other civil rights-era anthems surface, such as a swampy version of "Down In Mississippi," the triumphant "We Shall Not Be Moved," and a moving cover of her father Pops Staples' "Why Am I Treated So Bad?," replete with gospel singers and participating audience handclaps. "Waiting For My Child" is a powerful standout with a timeless-sounding band and Staples' off-mic wailing. - iTunes
