Barely into her twenties and, on this, her third album, Patrice Rushen's music spoke volumes for her talent and the growth she would endure as a music virtuoso. This album is not smeared with that dated sound of the '70s so many instrumental projects were contaminated with. Instead, Rushen gives her audience a pleasurable collection of songs ranging from jazz, funk, and fusion to R&B. While "Let There Be Funk" serves up a modest feel for the groove, "Roll with the Punches" has a rapid rhythm that cooks with precision. As jazzy as they may be, she has moderately paced tracks like "The Hump" and "Stepping Stones" -- the former is soul-stirring, and the latter is an easy listening, melodious number. "Shout It Out," the title track, releases more funk with its delayed cadence. The Los Angeles native gives her testimonial plea on "Sojourn" and has a calming effect on "Yolon." Most of the selections feature vocals.
© Craig Lytle /TiVo
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