Review

Instant Funk: The Albums 1976-1983 (RobinSongs)

Instant Funk was an American funk and disco band formed in the early 1970s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The group consisted of Raymond Earl, Scotty Miller, and drummer Charles Williams, along with additional members who joined later.

Instant Funk gained popularity in the late 1970s with their infectious dance tracks and energetic live performances. They became widely known for their collaboration with the legendary R&B and soul singer, Lou Rawls, on the hit song "I Need It" in 1979.

However, their breakthrough came in 1980 with the release of their self-titled album, which featured their biggest hit, "I Got My Mind Made Up (You Can Get It Girl)". The song became an instant disco anthem and reached the top of the Billboard Dance charts. It also crossed over to the mainstream charts, peaking at number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Instant Funk continued to release music throughout the 1980s, but they didn't achieve the same level of success as their early hits. Nevertheless, they remained active in the music scene, performing live and contributing to various projects.

Their music is characterised by infectious grooves, tight rhythm section and catchy hooks, which made them popular in the disco and funk era. Instant Funk's contribution to the genre has made them influential and their songs continue to be cherished by fans of funk and disco music.

The big floor fillers are all here on this 5cd collection including "I Got My Mind Made Up (You Can Get It Girl)", "It Ain’t Reggae (But It’s Funky)", "Philly Jump", "Witch Doctor", "No Stoppin’ That Rockin’’, "Bodyshine" plus many, many more... it’s comprehensive, to say the least.

Overall, Instant Funk had a significant impact on the disco and funk scene of the 1970s and 1980s, leaving behind a legacy of danceable and memorable music and it’s all to relive and enjoy on this comprehensive compilation. Suffice it to say, it’s another fine anthology brought to you by RobinSongs and Cherry Red.
Words Emrys Baird