IDRIS MUHAMMAD Vinyl & CDs

Review: Idris Muhammad, a prominent American jazz drummer and bandleader, has left an indelible mark on contemporary music as one of its most sampled drummers. His 1976 album House Of The Rising Sun likely fuelled this reputation, thanks to Muhammad's impeccable rhythmic precision. Renowned for his tight, rubbery style, Muhammad's mastery shines through in the six long jazz-funk tracks on the LP. Each piece showcases his unwavering commitment to the craft, delivered with ultra-crisp quality. Despite his acclaim, it's doubtful Muhammad ever faced flying cymbals during his illustrious career, a testament to his undeniable skill and professionalism.

Review: Legendary jazz drummer Idris Muhammad really made his mark with his debut album Black Rhythm Revolution! for the Prestige label in 1970. Originally recorded at celebrated Rudy Van Gelder studio in Englewood Cliffs, it is bookend by length tunes 'By the Red Sea' and 'Wander' which feature tight grooves, compact solos and memorable melodies. It is not as intense of some of his later work and features the likes of Virgil Jones on trumpet Clarence Thomas on tenor and soprano saxophone and Jimmy Lewis on electric bass. Craft present this reissue with original artwork on nice 180 g limited edition vinyl.

Review: Idris's fifth and perhaps most popular of his near-20 LP strong solo discography (that's not including the epic array of artists he's worked with from Fats Domino to Art Davis) Ranging from the heavily-sampled stone-cold soul stunner "Could Heaven Ever Be Like This" to silky disco funk such as the album title track and the sleazier "Crab Apple" to the frenetic jazz blasts of tracks such as "Camby Bolongo", this is the sound of a man fully committed to the craft and spirit of the groove. Nothing short of essential.