Gula Matari

A classic soul-funk jazz masterpiece by music giant Quincy Jones, Gula Matari marked his second and final album under the Creed Taylor aegis. It constituted a real step forward for the jazzman, who was moving here into sophisticated new territory.

Instrumentation includes: Milt Jackson, vibes; Hubert Laws, flute; Freddie Hubbard, trumpet; Eric Gale, guitar; Herbie Hancock and Bob James, keyboards; special guests include Toots Thielemans on guitar and soulful vocals by Valerie Simpson. Among the highlights are the incredible 12-minute tribal groove of the title track, a killer take on Nat Adderley's "Hummir, and the churchy R&B cover of Paul Simon's mega-hit "Bridge Over Troubled Water".