Although it followed a formula similar to the hugely successful
Memphis Underground,
Muscle Shoals Nitty Gritty stands on its own as a superb example of the fusion of jazz with '60s soul music, a genre that
Herbie Mann stood atop at the time of its release. In addition to
Mann band members
Roy Ayers,
Miroslav Vitous and
Bruno Carr, the recording employs the Muscle Shoals rhythm section that had played together on numerous soul hits of the '60s, including those of
Aretha Franklin. Standout cuts include the title track, with the its horn-driven groove; Sharrock's "Blind Willy," featuring a jew's-harp hook; and a smoldering version of Lennon & McCartney's "Come Together." Throughout the album,
Mann's solos wail through the upper register of the flute, while Ayers finds interestingly funky passages on the vibes. ~ Jim Newsom