Back catalogue: Funk

Review: Don Blackman's 1982 self-titled debut is an underrated jazz-funk gem that fuses soul, funk and jazz-fusion into a sophisticated groove-laden journey that was produced by Dave Grusin and Larry Rosen for GRP Records. The album showcases Blackman's keyboard wizardry and soulful vocals across standout tracks like 'Heart's Desire' and 'Holding You Loving You.' With playful cuts like 'Yabba Dabba Doo,' it balances polish with joyful experimentation and though not a commercial hit, its influence has quietly grown and ir has been sampled by hip-hop greats and revered by collectors alike. This reissue reaffirms its status as a cult classic and a crucial slice of 80s funk.

Review: Don Blackman's self-titled debut, released in 1982, is a jazz-funk masterpiece that has long been overlooked despite its significance in the genre. While it may not feature the familiar production of P-Funk luminaries like George Clinton, its essence resonates deeply within the Venn diagram of funk, soul and jazz-fusion, placing Blackman at the center of a unique musical nexus. Produced by Dave Grusin and Larry Rosen for GRP Records, the album stands alongside other funk classics like Fuzzy Haskins's A Whole Nother Thang and Bernie Worrell's Blacktronic Science. Tracks like 'Hearts Desire', with its captivating slap bass groove and 'Holding You, Loving You', showcasing romantic lyrics and harmonies, exemplify Blackman's artistry. His blend of aggressive jazz-funk is not only infectious but also reveals a distinctive sound that deserves recognition. This reissue of Blackman's album serves as a timely reminder of its place among the top funk records.