A Funky Thide of Sings
Billy Cobham · 1975
44 min · 8 tracks · funk
A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, driven by intricate rhythms and explosive improvisation that showcases musical virtuosity.
Top tracks — play these first
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Panhandler Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Some Skunk Funk — This track epitomizes the album's energetic spirit, featuring complex rhythms and a catchy hook that showcases Cobham’s drumming prowess alongside tight ensemble playing.
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A Funky Kind of Thing — Clocking in at over nine minutes, this extended piece allows for expansive improvisation and exemplifies Cobham’s ability to merge intricate compositions with spontaneous jams.
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Moody Modes — With its atmospheric beginning that transitions into an upbeat groove, this track highlights the versatility of the band and Cobham's skillful navigation between moods and tempos.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends intricate rhythms and improvisation, marking a significant moment in jazz fusion.
What we noticed
- The album opens with 'Panhandler', which features a complex drum pattern that sets a high-energy tone for the record.
- Several tracks incorporate layered horn arrangements that add depth and texture to the overall sound.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- dynamic journey with energetic peaks
- intricate melodies for attentive listening
- vibrant grooves for dancing
- wave-like pacing with surprises
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, predictable tracks
- seeking instant gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Cobham's reputation in jazz fusion after his debut.
- Themes
- jazz fusion energy· explosive improvisation· post-bop rhythms
- Career context
- Released in 1975, A Funky Thide of Sings was Billy Cobham's third solo album following his acclaimed debut Spectrum. At this point in his career, Cobham was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz fusion scene after gaining recognition as a drummer for Mahavishnu Orchestra.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Mahavishnu Orchestra· Chick Corea· Weather Report
Tracklist
- 1 Panhandler Start here 4:05
- 2 Sorcery 2:24
- 3 A Funky Thide of Sings 3:37
- 4 Thinking of You 4:28
- 5 Some Skunk Funk 5:08
- 6 Light at the End of the Tunnel 3:39
- 7 A Funky Kind of Thing 9:14
- 8 Moody Modes 12:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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