The great Bob Shad is a hell of a fellow – a
jazz producer who did amazing work for Mercury Records in the 50s, captured postwar blues on his own small label, set loose a run of excellent 60s
jazz and vocal releases, then really found his strength as the 70s moved in – and his Mainstream Records label became a showcase for some of the hippest and most righteous artists of the time! This collection focuses on the best of the best of the cuts that crackled on Mainstream – mostly funky and spiritual
jazz numbers, but mixed with a few vocal cuts too – often served up in that trademark blend of electric and acoustic that made Shad's productions so great – with a vibe that was so different than music coming from labels like Prestige, Fantasy, or CTI at the time. The choice of cuts is wonderful, and the set boasts liner notes by Judd Apatow – who turns out to be Bob's grandson! Titles include "Mask" by Shelly Manne, "
Soulsides" by Art Farmer, "Magical Connection" by Sarah Vaughan, "
Soul Village" by Blue Mitchell, "House Of The Rising Funk" by Afrique, "Abscretions" by Buddy Terry, "Right On" by Maxine Weldon, "Red Clay" by Jack Wilkins, "Scatbird" by Barry Miles, "Rum & Mumbles" by Clark Terry, "I Ain't Got Much" by Ellerine Harding, "Granite & Concrete" by Blue Mitchell, "Feelin Good" by Carmen McRae, and "Quadrivium" by Hadley Caliman.