Electric Funk cover

Electric Funk

Jimmy McGriff · 1970

32 min · 9 tracks · blues

A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk rhythms, punctuated by energetic organ riffs and tight brass arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Back on the Track — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious groove and showcases McGriff's signature organ sound, drawing listeners into the funk-infused world.
  • →
    Funky Junk — The title track blends catchy melodies with rhythmic complexity, epitomizing the essence of the electric funk genre while highlighting McGriff's innovative approach to arrangement.
  • →
    Spear for Moondog, Part 1 — This track features a compelling interplay between instruments, showcasing McGriff's ability to balance melody and rhythm, making it a standout moment on the album.

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

Electric Funk showcases strong compositions and vibrant arrangements, solidifying McGriff's place in the soul jazz movement.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong, upbeat track that sets a lively tone, followed by several pieces that maintain a consistent tempo and groove.
  • Each track features prominent organ riffs layered with brass arrangements, creating a rich, textured sound throughout the record.
  • The last two tracks slow down the pace significantly, providing a contrast to the energetic opening and middle sections.
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 6/10

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

  • consistent groove for dancing
  • upbeat vibes for social gatherings
  • short tracks for quick enjoyment
  • soulful melodies that uplift
  • steady rhythm for background energy

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking long, introspective pieces
  • prefer slow, somber moods

Where this album fits

Career context
Electric Funk was Jimmy McGriff's second album, released in 1970 following his debut, A Bag Full of Soul. At this point, McGriff was establishing himself as a leading figure in the soul jazz movement, infusing traditional jazz elements with contemporary funk influences that would become a hallmark of his style.
Stylistic neighbors
Jimmy Smith· Charles Earland· Reuben Wilson

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Back on the Track 3:20
  • 2 Chris Cross 3:48
  • 3 Miss Poopie 3:20
  • 4 The Bird Wave 4:05
  • 5 Spear for Moondog, Part 1 3:31
  • 6 Spear for Moondog, Part 2 3:06
  • 7 Tight Times 4:00
  • 8 Spinning Wheels 3:36
  • 9 Funky Junk 3:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata