All Things Deep - Reviews - East Bay Rhythm: A Little Love Will Help

East Bay Rhythm - A Little Love Will Help

The name of the band may be unfamiliar, but East Bay Rhythm was something of a supergroup of Bay Area musicians. Freddie Washington, Paul Jackson, James Levi and Bill Summers were among the participants, and their credentials include working with Patrice Rushen and Herbie Hancock.

This release is a collection of jams that were recorded between 1976-1980, during the prime years of Bay Area funk's popularity. For some reason, these recordings languished in a vault until being rescued.

Heavy on the bass and percussion, the seven selections draw upon a number of inspirations. "Mud Rat" is Headhunters-styled jazz-funk, as nasty as anything Herbie was recording at the time. "Chuda" is a grooving Latin number, perfect for the summertime. "Party Down" finds the guys heading to the local disco for some action. Straight funk forms the basis for the other songs, with the Bay Area's trademark tight ensemble playing in full effect.

Many of the cuts are presented in vocal and instrumental versions, giving you the option of ignoring Robert Fall's vocal contributions. A Little Love Will Help is a potent reminder of the vibrancy of the west coast scene and is recommended to collectors.

Released 2002 on 7Bridges

Selected Tracks:

Mud Rat
Chuda
Accept Me
Party Down