The Blackbyrds – Flying Start

This album is fire, some of the best funk I've heard. Copy that I got is in really good condition as well.

This Donald Byrd produced 2nd outing for The Blackbyrds often gets cruelly overlooked, due to it's Larry Mizell produced predecessor The Blackbyrds - The Blackbyrds , and due to the fact the x2 LP's came out within minutes of each other.

I was guilty, purchasing my copy only 3 years ago, what a crime. This is a fantastic album, & any shortcomings by comparison with Larry M's signature Jazz- Funk style (by now peaking in 1974, what a 🌶🔥 year in Jazz! And the year I was born) are countered by the pure dynamics of a band so in tune, tight & honest, you can feel them in the room.

2 key tracks on here newcomers may recognise as the sample sources for X2 MF DOOM (RIP) tracks:

'April Showers': Sampled for Metal Fingers - Special Herbs Vol. 5 & 6 - Lavender Buds
'Love Is Love': Sampled for Metal Fingers - Special Herbs 4,5,6 White Willow Bark

The way April showers was used is nothing short of genius. For me its the DOOM anthem; perfectly capturing both his sound, and the tragic story that made him the ultimate anti- hero due to loss, human fragility & instability; as if it was written for him. Spooky? Nah, the mark of a true digger & master craftsman.

Back to the Blackbyrds. 1st outing, & a flying start indeed that stands the test of time very well indeed.

Great album from a truly great group. Every track's a winner.