Memphis Two-Step

As part of his series of soul/R&B-influenced albums, Memphis Two-Step was the third installment by Herbie Mann after Memphis Underground and Muscle Shoals Nitty Gritty. Despite its less-than-stellar reception compared to its predecessor, the album is redeemed by the exceptional guitar work of Sonny Sharrock.

Sharrock's talent is fully unleashed in the final track "Kabuki Rock," with a wild, psychedelic vibe that clashes against a speeding beat and creates a rare feeling of tension on the album.

Mann's incorporation of rock and pop genres was seen as a betrayal by many traditional jazz musicians. However, his desire to attract a wider audience allowed for experimentation and inspired fellow musicians to take risks.