I forget exactly where I picked this up which is surprising because it’s probably my favorite record of my entire collection. It was recorded by a Kansas City band and released by a KC label, my hometown. The funny thing I do remember is I didn’t find it in KC. Digging through a box of 45’s I pulled it out and was in complete awe. My heart was in my throat. This is the first KC record I ever found. If I remember right it was $25, a bargain for a clean copy of a short run pressing from an indie label. The first time I played the record I was blown away. Hey, that guy is singing about my hometown! It starts off with a funky guitar and a sound I still can’t quite put my finger on. It’s either a talk box or a guitar effect I’ve never heard before. Either way it fits with the other instruments perfectly. Next the drums kick in and in all honesty they’re nothing to write home about. They’re just there, just enough to swing the funk. Then the bass line starts up and and an electric piano comes in. A lead male vocal finds his way into the mix, “Kansas City’s…” Yes, now we’re talking! As the song advances the tune stays pretty consistent except for a few breaks for bass, drums, a whistle, and cowbell. Apparently they got Will Farrel’s memo. It sounds like a seriously odd combination said out loud or typed but they all just sound right together. The male vocalist goes on to paint a picture of K.C.’s east side, my grandmas neighborhood and mine in my early 20’s. The B side is a treasure paid in an amazing recording of the soul classic Grandma’s Hands. If you’ve never found a rare record older than you are from your stomping grounds I can’t explain the feeling you get listening to it. You’re hearing your city’s developing sound and history from the streets. I eventually contacted a well-known crate digger from back home to see if he had any info on the band or label. Of course he did! He had some old fliers, posters and knew some history. I wonder what happened to the label? I wonder what happened to the band? I wonder what it was like in the music scene at that time and what other bands they were hanging out with at gigs. So many questions. At least I have an answer as to what a KC indie funk and soul band from the 70’s sounds like. Keep your eyes peeled for labels you’ve never heard of, never know what you might find.
• Released 1975 on K-Town Records
Review by: Def Wax
Def Wax 