Ubiquity

Ubiquity is a pivotal recording in Roy Ayers' discography, widely regarded as the foundational work of his signature jazz-funk sound. It captures the revered vibraphonist in a crucial artistic transition, moving away from his hard bop origins towards an infectious fusion of soul, funk, and  jazz that would later influence the acid jazz and hip-hop genres. While some might find the blend a touch "polite" compared to his later, heavier funk outings like Everybody Loves the Sunshine, critics generally praise the album as a successful and inventive experiment. The record features a potent mix of instrumentals with evocative, almost psychedelic arrangements, such as "Pretty Brown Skin" and "Painted Desert," alongside vocal tracks that employ male and female voices, a hallmark of the Ubiquity band's future work. Backed by a stellar supporting cast that includes drummer Alphonso Mouzon and keyboardist Harry Whitaker, Ayers delivers strong solos and helps craft an engaging, groove-oriented sound that remains an "outstanding record" for fans of funk and jazz fusion.