Album Info
| Artist: | The Blackbyrds |
| Album: | City Life |
| Released: | US, 2014 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Rock Creek Park | 4:35 |
| Written-By - Hall, Killgo, Toney, Saunders, Johnson | ||
| A2 | Thankful 'bout Yourself | 5:11 |
| Written-By - Orville Saunders | ||
| A3 | City Life | 5:22 |
| Written-By - Kevin Toney | ||
| A4 | All I Ask | 3:50 |
| Written-By - Kevin Toney | ||
| B1 | Happy Music | 4:32 |
| Written-By - Donald Byrd | ||
| B2 | Love So Fine | 5:00 |
| Written-By - Joe Hall | ||
| B3 | Flying High | 3:29 |
| Written-By - Keith Killgo | ||
| B4 | Hash And Eggs | 5:06 |
| Written-By - F. Mizell, L. Mizell |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
"City Life" is the third studio album by the American jazz-funk band The Blackbyrds, released in 1975 on the Fantasy Records label. The Blackbyrds, formed in 1973, were a group of talented musicians who were students of the legendary jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd at Howard University. Byrd himself played a significant role in the band's formation and served as a mentor and producer for their early work.
"City Life" is often celebrated as one of The Blackbyrds' most successful and influential albums. It showcases the band's ability to blend jazz, funk, and R&B into a cohesive and engaging sound. The album features a mix of instrumental tracks and songs with vocals, highlighting the versatility and talent of the band members.
The album opens with the title track, "City Life," which sets the tone with its smooth, funky groove and catchy melody. The song captures the essence of urban living, with its upbeat tempo and vibrant instrumentation. The Blackbyrds' tight rhythm section, consisting of Joe Hall on bass and Keith Killgo on drums, provides a solid foundation for the track, while the horn section adds a layer of richness and complexity.
One of the standout tracks on the album is "Rock Creek Park," which has become one of The Blackbyrds' signature songs. Named after a well-known park in Washington, D.C., the track features a memorable bassline and infectious rhythm that have made it a favorite among fans of funk and hip-hop alike. The song's groove has been sampled by numerous artists over the years, cementing its place in music history.
Another notable track is "Happy Music," which lives up to its name with its upbeat and joyful vibe. The song features a lively horn arrangement and a catchy chorus that is sure to get listeners moving. The Blackbyrds' ability to create music that is both sophisticated and accessible is evident in this track, as well as throughout the album.
"City Life" also includes the track "Flying High," which showcases the band's jazz influences with its intricate melodies and improvisational solos. The song features standout performances from saxophonist Allan Barnes and trumpeter Donald Byrd, whose contributions elevate the track to new heights.
The album's production, handled by Donald Byrd and Larry Mizell, is polished and professional, allowing the musicians' talents to shine through. The use of synthesizers and electric pianos adds a modern touch to the album's sound, while the tight arrangements and skilled performances ensure that the music remains timeless.
"City Life" was well-received upon its release, reaching number 85 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 15 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. The success of the album helped to solidify The Blackbyrds' reputation as one of the leading jazz-funk bands of the 1970s.
In conclusion, "City Life" is a standout album in The Blackbyrds' discography and a testament to their musical prowess. The album's blend of jazz, funk, and R&B, combined with its memorable melodies and tight arrangements, make it a must-listen for fans of these genres. The Blackbyrds' ability to create music that is both sophisticated and accessible is evident throughout the album, and their influence can still be felt in the music of today. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, "City Life" is an album that deserves a place in any music lover's collection.
