Faze-O was a mellow funk group that emerged in the late ’70s from Dayton, Ohio. Produced by Clarence Satchell of the Ohio Players, their 1977 debut album Riding High is widely regarded as the band’s masterpiece and continues to be celebrated and sampled by contemporary artists. The album kicks off with the title track “Riding High,” which features a funky bassline, wavy Rhodes piano, and smooth vocal harmonies. The laid back and sensuous energy is palpable from the moment the song begins and hits with irresistible grooves and rhythmic hooks creating a perfect feel-good track. Another stand out is “You And I (Belong Together)” with its polished and well-balanced production allowing each instrument and vocal layer to shine. Lyrically, the song explores the theme of love and the unbreakable bond between two people. While Faze-O may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as some of their contemporaries, their contributions to funk and soul music remain undeniably influential. – Ally
Recommended- A1 Riding High, A3 You And I (Belong Together)
A1 Riding High
A2 Funky Reputation
A3 You And I (Belong Together)
B1 Toe Jam
B2 True Love
B3 Get Some Booty
B4 Test-This Is Faze-O
Arranged By- Ohio Players*
Art Direction- Bob Defrin
Bass, Backing Vocals- Tyrone “Flye” Crum
Congas- Robert “C.D.” Jones
Drums, Percussion- Roger “Dodger” Parker
Engineer- Hank Neuberger, Steve Kasciel
Guitar, Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals, Talkbox- Ralph “Love” Aikens
Illustration- Gerard Huerta, Todd Schorr
Keyboards, Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals, Electric Piano, Piano, Synthesizer, Percussion- Keith “Chop Chop” Harrison
Percussion, Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals- Robert “Bip” Neal, Jr*
Producer- Tight Corporation
Trumpet- Bobby Lewis, Jack Kramer, Paul Serrano