October 10, 1996
James Brown is arguably the most influential African-American artist to emerge in the latter half of the twentieth century. Not only did he create a lethal brand of funk that presaged disco, electrified R&B and fathered the current hip-hop movement, he put out consistently innovative and original material that provided sharp social commentary over an irresistible beat. But he didn't do it alone.
The J.B.'s were Brown's backup band during the early 70's, the most productive and deeply funky era of his career. What Brown and the J.B.'s did was to distill rhythm to its essence; funk has very few chord changes, and every instrument serves to accent, syncopate, or otherwise propel the beat forward. The result is an astounding pulsing rhythm layered with improvised horn solos, drum breaks and heartbeat double-plucked bass lines that rattle your spine and shake that ass for you.
This collection highlights 30 of the best instrumental gems from the J.B.'s crown, and if these tunes don't get you out of your seat, there's clearly something wrong with you. "Pass the Peas" features a spiraling, soaring horn riff followed by a stellar sax break from the incomparable Maceo Parker. "Gimme Some More" has one of trombonist Fred Wesley's finest moments, "Damn Right I'm Somebody" has drummer 'Jabo' Starks giving up the high hat in fierce form, and "I'm Paying Taxes, What am I Buying" has the dirtiest, funkiest break in the collection. This is one of the tightest bands ever assembled, with the finest musicians in the genre. Guaranteed to put a grin on your face, this anthology is a seven course meal of aural soul food.
- Jared O'Connor
shake your ass