Survival Of The Fittest (1975)
My CD emphatically states "THE Best Space-Funk Album". No room for negotiation, you just have to accept that premise. Funny to see that from a major label reissue.
Formed by Herbie Hancock, though he isn't a participant, The Headhunters go about making a funk album with a heavy jazz component, most notable in the free-ish saxophone playing from Bennie Maupin. Blackbird McKnight's guitar is more subdued here than on Straight From The Gate, except on B3 where he finally lets loose. There's more than a nod to the same sound Embryo and Missus Beastly were pursuing in Germany during this era. My favorite cut is the atmospheric flute / funk rhythm of 'Rima'. While Maupin has the burden of holding up these compositions, my MVP vote goes to bassist Paul Jackson, who puts the "funk" in this album.
Yea, I think I can go on record here and debate the CD's declaration of Best Ever Space Funk album. Regardless, it's still a fine effort in the style.
Ownership: 2025 Music On CD (CD). Essentially a repress of the 2001 Arista / BMG France release. Acquired in 2026.
2/9/26 (review)
Straight From The Gate (1977)
A mix of hard hitting instrumental jazz fusion and funky vocal numbers. They succeed on all accounts. Some great guitar from future P-Funk member Obsidian Blackbyrd.
Ownership: 1977 Arista promo (LP). Acquired in 2024.
7/3/24 (notes)
The band reformed in 1998 and have released five new studio albums since. Haven't heard any of them, but if I do, I'll report back here.
2/9/26 (new entry)
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