Live at the Sex Machine
Kool & The Gang · 1971
48 min · 11 tracks · funk · jazz · R&B
A vibrant live showcase blending funk, soul, and jazz with infectious energy and improvisational flair.
Why this album works
This album is significant as it captures the band at a pivotal moment in their evolution, showcasing their dynamic live performances that would help solidify their reputation in the funk genre. It also helped them gain traction on the charts, setting the stage for future hits and critical acclaim.
- Best for
- vibrant energy for celebration live performance spontaneity danceable grooves throughout
- Context
- Released on February 1, 1971, 'Live at the Sex Machine' was Kool & The Gang's first live album and came after their breakthrough with the hit single 'Jungle Boogie'. At this point in their career, they were transitioning from a jazz-influenced ensemble to one of the forefront bands of funk music, establishing their energetic live performance style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Christina Aguilera· Bob Dylan· Diana Ross· John Coltrane· Charles Mingus· Thelonious Monk· Barbra Streisand· Madonna
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 What Would the World Be Without Music / Let the Music Take Your Mind Medley Standout 4:29
- 2 Walk on By 5:15
- 3 Chocolate Buttermilk 2:09
- 4 Trying to Make a Fool of Me 4:29
- 5 Who's Gonna Take the Weight Standout 6:19
- 6 Pneumonia 5:22
- 7 Wichita Lineman 5:27
- 8 I Want to Take You Higher Standout 4:13
- 9 Funky Man 3:24
- 10 The Touch of You 4:14
- 11 Kool It (Here Comes the Fuzz (Previously Unreleased)) 2:58
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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