Composite Truth cover

Composite Truth

Mandrill · 1973

43 min · 8 tracks · funk

A vibrant fusion of funk, jazz, and soul that pulses with infectious rhythms and rich instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Fencewalk — This track exemplifies Mandrill's ability to weave complex rhythms with catchy melodies, making it a standout anthem of self-empowerment.
  • →
    Polk Street Carnival — With its lively instrumentation and festive vibe, this track captures the essence of celebration and community that is central to the album’s spirit.
  • →
    Moroccan Nights — This song showcases the band's adventurous approach to blending cultural influences, creating an exotic soundscape that transports listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong arrangements and distinctive rhythms, contributing to its unique sound within the funk genre.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong brass section that sets a lively tone, and each track features intricate arrangements with layered instrumentation.
  • Vocal harmonies are prominent throughout, often featuring call-and-response patterns that engage the listener and enhance the rhythmic complexity.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • infectious rhythms for dancing
  • celebratory vibes for gatherings
  • upbeat tracks for road trips
  • vibrant energy during workouts

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, introspective music
  • want minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Composite Truth was Mandrill's third studio album, released in 1973 as they were gaining momentum in the funk scene following their previous releases. This album marked a significant point in their career, showcasing their evolving sound and confidence as artists.
Stylistic neighbors
Earth, Wind & Fire· Chic· Tower of Power

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Hang Loose 4:49
  • 2 Fencewalk 5:32
  • 3 Hagalo 2:49
  • 4 Don’t Mess With People 4:57
  • 5 Polk Street Carnival 6:06
  • 6 Golden Stone 7:16
  • 7 Out With the Boys 5:10
  • 8 Moroccan Nights 6:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata