Album Info
| Artist: | Funkadelic |
| Album: | Free Your Mind And Your Ass Will Follow |
| Released: | Europe, 20 Dec 2020 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Free Your Mind And Your Ass Will Follow | 10:00 |
| Written-By - E. Hazel, G. Clinton, R. Davis | ||
| A2 | Friday Night, August 14th | 5:20 |
| Written-By - B. Nelson, E. Hazel, G. Clinton | ||
| B1 | Funky Dollar Bill | 3:14 |
| Written-By - E. Hazel, G. Clinton, R. Davis | ||
| B2 | I Wanna Know If It's Good To You | 5:54 |
| Written-By - B. Nelson, E. Hazel, C. Haskins, G. Clinton | ||
| B3 | Some More | 2:55 |
| Written-By - E. Harris, G. Clinton | ||
| B4 | Eulogy And Light | 3:29 |
| Written-By - E. Harris |
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Description
"Funkadelic - Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow" is an embodiment of the psychedelic funk that defined the early 1970s. Released in 1970, this album is the second by the American funk band Funkadelic, led by George Clinton. The album's title serves not only as a provocative statement but also as a manifesto for the band's philosophy towards music and liberation. This review delves into the album's production, thematic elements, musicality, and its place in the pantheon of funk music.
The album opens with the title track, "Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow," a ten-minute psychedelic odyssey that sets the tone for the entire album. The song begins with an eerie invocation, "Free your mind, and your ass will follow. The kingdom of heaven is within!" This line encapsulates the album's central theme: the power of mental liberation and its physical manifestations. The track is a whirlwind of reverb-drenched guitars, haunting organ lines, and layered vocals that create a sense of cosmic disorientation.
Following the opener, "Friday Night, August 14th" provides a sharp contrast with its tighter funk groove and more structured composition. This track showcases the band's ability to blend psychedelic rock elements with the rhythmic and melodic sensibilities of funk. Eddie Hazel's guitar work is particularly noteworthy, offering a glimpse into his profound influence on the genre.
The album's experimentation reaches a peak with "Funky Dollar Bill," a critique of materialism and the corrupting power of money. The track's gritty guitar riffs and rhythmic interplay between the bass and drums underscore the band's social commentary, a recurring theme in Funkadelic's discography.
"I Wanna Know If It's Good to You?" brings a more traditional funk sound, reminiscent of the band's earlier work. The track's infectious groove and call-and-response vocals highlight the band's mastery of funk's foundational elements, while still infusing psychedelic flourishes that maintain the album's overarching vibe.
"Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow" is not just an album; it's an experience. The production, led by George Clinton, is a masterclass in creating a cohesive sound that is both expansive and immersive. The use of reverb, innovative stereo panning, and the raw, unpolished quality of the recordings contribute to the album's unique psychedelic atmosphere.
Thematically, the album is a bold exploration of freedom, both mental and physical. It challenges listeners to break free from societal constraints and find liberation through music. This theme is woven throughout the album, not just in the lyrics but in the very fabric of the music itself.
Musically, the album is a fusion of genres, blending funk, rock, and psychedelia into a singular sound that defied categorization. The musicianship is top-notch, with each member of the band contributing to the album's dense, layered sound. Bernie Worrell's keyboard work, in particular, adds depth and texture, while the rhythm section of Billy Bass Nelson and Tiki Fulwood provides a solid foundation for the band's explorations.
In the context of funk music, "Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow" is a seminal work. It pushed the boundaries of the genre, introducing elements of psychedelia and rock that would influence countless artists in the years to come. The album's bold experimentation and thematic depth set it apart from its contemporaries, securing its place as a classic.
In conclusion, "Funkadelic - Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow" is a landmark album that encapsulates the spirit of an era. Its blend of psychedelic funk, social commentary, and musical innovation makes it a timeless piece of art. The album not only showcases Funkadelic's immense talent but also offers a message of liberation that resonates just as strongly today. It is a testament to the enduring power of music to free the mind and the body.
