Brick

Brick emerged from Atlanta, Georgia, in the mid-1970s as a pivotal force in the evolution of funk. Formed in 1972, the band achieved a unique sonic identity by consciously merging the rhythmic drive of disco with the improvisational textures of jazz, a hybrid they famously labeled 'Dazz.'

Their sound is anchored by the multi-instrumental talents of members like Jimmy Brown and Ray Ransom, who allowed the band to pivot between heavy funk workouts and melodic, pop-leaning soul. Their 1976 single 'Dazz' became a cultural touchstone, topping R&B charts and crossing over to the Pop Top 10, establishing a blueprint for the 'sophisti-funk' that would follow. Throughout the late 70s and early 80s, they remained a staple of the Bang Records roster, influencing the transition from raw funk to the more polished, synth-augmented R&B of the early 80s. Critically, they are respected for their technical proficiency, particularly the use of flute and saxophone as lead melodic voices over aggressive, syncopated basslines.