Douglas' comittment to both witness the democratic struggles of the USA and be an agent of change through music's power can only be lauded. But Overcome also reflects the vulnerability of such ambition.

Overcome is a multi-valenced title. It resonates with the great Civil Rights anthem, yet also suggests that the righteous may yet become the ‘overcome’. The moral high ground doesn't grant you victory. And the social atomisation generated by Covid-19 has further tested communal action. Indeed, this album was recorded remotely, giving it a loose, uncoupled feel compared to the collaborative spontaneity you associate with Douglas.

So, the opening ‘We shall Overcome’, although remaining steadfast in its emphasis on the line ‘we are not afraid’ is also fragile and doubting as the differing stylings of Meza and Victor's voices counterpoint each other. But with an exclamation mark, Overcome is also an imperative: an exhortation to fight back. ‘When We are Together Again’ shows sweetness summoned by hope, while the suite-like ‘Perspective’ is the emotional heart of the album. And you don't say that often about a freely improvised ensemble piece. But as the individuals wail, moan but also coalesce in listening to each other's songs, so a collective sound gels from the disparate parts. Apart from each other but still a part of the voices of all. Overcome.