Funkdefied Honey Child...Back That Azz Up!
One Nation Under Groove (1978): Arguably, the best Funkadelic album. With the mind of George Clinton, this is his big kahuna. It's also the most played album too. The title track is probably the most I've heard on radio and in clubs. "Who Says A Funk Band Can't Play Rock," is a excellent piece that might be the best on the whole album. Perhaps my second favorite track is "Promentalshitbackwashpsychosis Enema Squad" (got that?) the lyrics are just out of control and would scare off most listeners, but the instrumental track and background is great. The re-release of the album on Charly Groove has the EP a live version of "Maggot Brain," and the chant "Think...It Ain't Illegal Yet." Fun for all ages.
Uncle Jam Wants You (1979): Another Gem. This album was probably the last truly good one from the Funkateers. "Freak of the Weak" is an awesome groove that will keep you thumpin' for weeks. The best track is by far, "Not Just Knee Deep." This track has been sampled by many rap and hip-hop artists since. Both these tracks are longer than normal and takes up the first side. The second side is not as good as the first. I'm not a big fan of "Frankie Goes To Hollywood." Ballads were never that big with Clinton's gang. A first rate album nevertheless.
Other Honorable Mentions
Free Your Mind and Your Ass Will Follow (1970): I actually liked the cover the best althought the tracks "Friday Night, August the Fourteenth," and Funky Dollar Bill" are good tracks. Clinton's soul, fusion, funk and acid rock make this album more like a good follow through from their self titled album.
Cosmic Slop (1973): I actually don't have this one, but I've heard it a few times. It reminds me of Maggot Brain, but with the addition of Bootsy Collins makes this a better lengthier jam session. A good version of the title track can be found on P-Funk All-Stars Live at the Hollywood Bowl (1983?)...it's been a while since I've heard it.
Live: Meadowbrook, Rochester, Michigan 12th September 1971 (1996): An unusal gig for the Funksters. "Amorphous, free rock" was how it was described to me and I agree. Lots of their spaced out jams from the 14 min. version of "Maggot Brain" and good tracks like "I Got A Thing, You Got A Thing, We Got A Thing." Other unreleased tracks/versions are "All Your Goodies Are Gone" and "I Call My Baby Pussycat." Strange though how they have "Alice In My Fantasies," when was released almost 3yrs. later. Fidelity is good, but the vocals are a bit too low, so the instruments are overwhelming.
