I find it hard to remember track names from George Duke’s Feel because the album is more than a collection of individual pieces — it’s a cohesive body of work that one should experience without interruption. The tight syncopated performance of George and his band create a sense of focus to every track, with ambient segues serving as a calm before the storm between intense moments on the record. George successfully uses an eclectic sound palette to create this album; incorporating many genres including soul, funk, afrobeat, jazz, rock, etc., to craft a broadly enjoyable listening experience. There’s a little something on Feel for everyone.
The album artwork is beautiful. Wilfried Sätty did an excellent job creating a colorful landscape to accompany the diverse sounds on Feel. I also find the floating gemstones add a mystique to the environment and sense of richness to the record that is alluring.
I often prefer the melodies and fast funky stylings offered by Feel as opposed to other records. In fact, George Duke clearly inspired this era of jazz funk experimentation; for example, Thundercat’s vocal and rapid play style is reminiscent of Duke’s falsetto vocals and fast-paced compositions. I always appreciate getting lost in Feel’s world and expanding my mind to what is possible in music.
As soon as the album is over, I lift the needle and flip the record back to side A to replay from the start. I hope you do the same.
– Evan