For this week’s HFLS, we feature one of our favorite labels –– Kudu Records!

Founded by Creed Taylor in 1971, Kudu was formed in order to showcase more ‘commercial’ artists than its parent label CTI Records, and focuses more on R&B, Soul, and Blues-oriented Jazz music.

Fittingly, we start off the evening with Johnny Hammond’s “Breakout” –– Kudu’s first release from 1971. “Breakout” is a smoking album that runs the gamut of Soul-Jazz to Hard Funk and sets the tone of the label’s future releases. Next up, Grant Green’s “Main Attraction”, a funky album with heavy emphasis on grooves. Movie themes come to mind upon listening, which may have informed the album’s name choice. 

Halfway through, at the crescendo of our evening, we visit “Power of Soul,” arguably Idris Muhammad’s best work. “Power” is an epic 4-tracker that manages to be accessible without sacrificing musical complexity; Kudu’s vision materialized. Finally, we close out with Esther Phillips’ “Black-Eyed Blues”, her third and strongest contribution to the label. There are a variety of styles here from stomping blues to heart-felt ballads, and most of them feature lush string arrangements, giving the album a warm dreamy atmosphere. The perfect nightcap for a session of deep listening.

Our program starts promptly at 8pm. Early arrival and low-speaking voices suggested.