Ken Rhodes’ rare 1974 jazz-funk recording ‘Profiles’ receives limited reissue

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Ken Rhodes’ rare 1974 jazz-funk recording ‘Profiles’ receives limited reissue

Composer and pianist Ken Rhodes’ highly obscure 1974 jazz-funk recording Profiles has recently seen a limited-edition reissue by the French independent label Sconsolato. Originally released by the small German jazz label AMAYANA, this album represents the well-travelled musician’s most notable work as a bandleader.

With a name like “Ken Rhodes”, you might assume this highly talented musician was born to play a certain type of instrument made famous by Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and others, however throughout this eight-track recording Rhodes is specifically featured on acoustic piano. Backed by his superb trio featuring bassist Joachim Knauer and drummer George Greene, the album features a solid dose of uptempo soulful jazz-funk grooves, combined with some more bluesy moments. This record has the feel of a live smokey small club session that can certainly work on the jazz dancefloors.

With this reissue limited to just 300 copies, and receiving some solid buzz from many notable jazz DJs, I expect this edition to be out of print very soon. Shoutout to Sconsolato for making this brilliant album available again (even if limited) 47 years after it’s initial release.