(out of 5)
It’s almost impossible to listen to Johnny Pate’s 1970 album, Outrageous, without thinking of the cinema. There are two reasons for this: First, Pate himself is probably best known as composer for the 1973 blaxploitation films, Brother on the Run and Shaft in Africa, as well as the brief television series based on the latter’s movie franchise. Second, Outrageous, contains ten tracks that each bring to mind many movies of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Pate’s slow jams and funky grooves here would probably be enough to thrill even 1970s aficionado, Quentin Tarantino. In fact, many of these songs would have fit perfectly fit in his homage to ’70s cinema, Jackie Brown.
Johnny Pate’s contract with MGM/Verve required him to release one record under his own name and in 1970 he fulfilled that obligation with this terrific set on Outrageous. One of the most impressive aspects of Outrageous is how effectively it bridges the gap between the late ’60s music trends (i.e. the organ and flute combo on “Constant Wind”) and the funky horns and electric guitars of the early ’70s (played to perfection here on the title track). Pate combines organs, flutes, guitars, congas, and horns into a melting pot of rock, soul, funk, and jazz. There are heavy doses of the jazz fusion that Miles Davis and others had been birthing at the end of the 1960s and also an undeniable Latin flavor to Outrageous. All of this serves to make this record a surprising and intriguing record that boasts ten great songs.
Another strength to Outrageous is how well Pate is able to steer this thirteen-piece band as a single unit. It is a testament to his skill as composer and band leader picked up from his days in the ’50s and ’60s as jazz band leader. Yet, Outrageous isn’t rigid or stiff in its arrangements, instead, it’s just the opposite. Pate allows his musicians some freedom and the music moves and breathes without ever sounding bogged down. Pate rounded up a talented group for these sessions and it is dazzling to listen to how these guys play off one another. Pate’s ability to lead his band on the fine line between freedom and solidarity without betraying either reveals his wealth of talent. For those interested in funky big band jazz or for anyone who’s a fan of 1970s cinema and soundtracks, Outrageous is a must.
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Outrageous was re-released in 2008 by Dusty Groove America, a Chicago-based record store and label. The folks at Dusty Groove are making some great out-of-print music available. If you are interested in old jazz, blues, funk, soul, Brazilian, or hip-hop, then you should check them out. Also, if you are a vinyl collector their website should be in your bookmarks because you’ll be hard pressed to find a better deal on the gems they are offering. Dusty Groove is providing a great service to music lovers today.
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Johnny Pate
Outrageous
MGM/Dusty Groove America, 1970/2008
