A production team that put out some amazing music during the seventies, the Mizell Brothers — Larry and Ponce — concocted a sound that perfectly fused soul, funk, jazz, and pop music, crafting a rich sonic brew that has since been tapped by a number of hip-hop artists searching for that perfect beat. Often employing the same session players, including Harvey Mason and Wah Wah Watson, they had a good run with legendary label Blue Note Records, making exceptional records for the likes of trumpet player Donald Byrd and flautist Bobbi Humphries, among others. Though they would go on to put their stamp on a pair of smash hit disco jams later in the decade (with Taste of Honey and L.T.D.), this compilation focuses on their earlier work, especially the three albums they did with Donald Byrd. Methodically funky, constantly evolving mostly-instrumentals are the order of the day here, overflowing with snapping drum breaks, freaky synth washes, meandering melodies, and layered percussion. All eight songs on here are great, but "Blacks and Blues," "Wind Parade," "Lansana's Priestess," and "(Fallin' Like) Dominoes" are essential.