Back to Back

Released in 1976 as their sophomore effort on Arista, Back to Back solidified the Brecker Brothers' reputation as the premier architects of jazz-funk. Following their self-titled debut, this album leaned further into the 'street' elements of their sound while maintaining the terrifyingly accurate horn arrangements that became their signature. Recorded during a fertile period for New York session musicians, the album features a revolving door of virtuosos who would define the era's sound. Sonically, it is characterized by the use of electronic effects on acoustic horns - specifically Randy Brecker's use of the wah-wah pedal and octave dividers - which helped bridge the gap between jazz and the burgeoning rock and disco scenes. While critics at the time sometimes bristled at the commercial leanings of the 'Brecker Bump,' the album has aged as a landmark of technical fusion, cited by generations of brass players for its uncompromising precision and rhythmic complexity.