"I'm New Here," fibs the title of Gil Scott Heron's latest album. Certainly, it's been a while since the Chicago-born poet and singer had a new record in stores -- 15 years, in fact, and his previous disc, 1995's "Spirits," broke a 12-year hiatus. If anything, however, his reputation has only grown in the years since his productive heyday.

Of all the people who could claim to be hip-hop before hip-hop existed, Scott-Heron has a stronger case than most. Ironically, his most famous tune -- the one that anointed him godfather of conscious, political rap -- was initially a B-side. As it turned out, "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" reached an iconic status that almost overwhelmed the rest of Scott-Heron's output -- a diverse mixture of jazz, soul, slam poetry and proto-rap.

His career has been disrupted by extensive drug problems and a stint in jail, but it's great to see him clean and back at top form. The singer's comeback also gives us an excuse to salute the fact that the man who gave us the unforgettable image of NAACP executive director Roy Wilkins "strolling through Watts in a red, black and green liberation jumpsuit that he had been saving for just the proper occasion" had a pretty natty dress sense himself.

Check our version of the wordsmith's get-up below.



Jean's Paul Gaultier Coat
Nothing says '70s cool like a slim-fit, wide-lapeled, double-breasted coat. Pick up one in funky, waxed denim, like this super slick number from Jean Paul Gaultier's jeans brand, and people may as well just start calling you "Shaft." ($590 from Yoox.com)

Spitfire Bullet 2 Graduated Frame Glasses

Perhaps the most stylish thing about Gil Scott-Heron's overall look is the contrast between the flashy, blaxploitation-style overcoat and his geeky oversized glasses: The perfect combination of proto-hip-hop bling and poetic intellectualism. ($31.95 from Asos.com)

Sure Lock Hat

Not sure that we can fully endorse what appears to be Mr. Scott-Heron's camo bucket hat. This black version from Quiksilver, however, makes for a subtle substitute. ($13 from Quiksilver.com)

Ugg Australia Rib Knit Scarf (in Natural)

Aussie brand Ugg maybe responsible for kitting out an entire generation of women in seriously Ugg-ly, fur-lined boots, but that doesn't mean they don't know how to make a toasty, wool scarf. ($36.90 from Nordstrom.com)