This was a nice little score for a couple of quid last week - an early 90's reissue of this little funk gem by F.B.I., also known as Funky Bands Incorporated.
This LP was originally put out by this UK funk collective in 1976 and as happened another great UK outfit, Oneness of JuJu, they quickly dissapeared without any real commercial success. I doubt that this sold many copies when reissued either, as it's got a pretty shitty cover - is that a photo of Charles Bronson?
It must have been tough being a UK band trying to play funk when so much of the stuff (and usually much better too) was coming over from the US. There are definite shades of early Earth Wind & Fire, as well as the 'big' sound of groups like Brass Construction and B.T. Express. What I like about it is the rawness - it could easily be a live set in a dark and sweaty nightclub.
It was reissued again recently by Soul Brother Records, this time with the original artwork and probably a better pressing - this 1991 version is a bit ropey. For me the best track is the opening tune, F.B.I., but there's a decent mix of different vibes for different tastes.
Maybe not essential, but keep an eye out.
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