1980 UK import original. "Are You Glad To Be In America?" is a seminal album by guitarist and vocalist James Blood Ulmer, released in 1980. Known for his distinctive blend of jazz, blues, and rock, Ulmer's work on this album is often associated with the free jazz movement, showcasing his innovative approach to guitar playing. The album features a raw and energetic sound, characterized by Ulmer's unique use of dissonance and rhythm. It includes contributions from several notable musicians, including Ronald Shannon Jackson on drums, who adds a dynamic and powerful percussion backdrop to Ulmer's intricate guitar work. The album's title track, "Are You Glad To Be In America?", stands out for its driving rhythm and political undercurrents, reflecting the socio-political climate of the time.

The album remains an influential work in Ulmer's discography, highlighting his ability to transcend conventional genre boundaries. It captures a period in music history when artists were boldly experimenting with form and content, contributing to the evolution of jazz into the avant-garde. Ulmer's approach, often described as "harmolodic," draws from his collaboration with jazz legend Ornette Coleman and showcases a fearless exploration of musical possibilities. The album has been reissued multiple times, ensuring its availability to new generations of listeners who continue to appreciate its groundbreaking qualities. "Are You Glad To Be In America?" represents a crucial point in the fusion of jazz with other contemporary music styles, solidifying James Blood Ulmer's place as a pioneering figure in modern music.