Eddie Hazel - Rest In P (1994)

Like Jams From the Heart, Rest in P isn't a full-length LP but rather a compilation of vault recordings dug up to satisfy P-Funk fans' insatiable hunger for Eddie Hazel material. A Japanese import, Rest in P actually manages to eclipse the brief four-song Jams of the Heart by featuring that material under different song titles as well as additional material. Standout moments include the three epic jams: "Juicy Fingers" (14 minutes), "We Three" (12 minutes), and "No, It's Not!" (nine-and-a-half minutes). These songs showcase exactly why Hazel became so revered among later generations of P-Funk aficionados -- his '70s studio work, with the exception of "Maggot Brain" and "Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow," only hints at his Hendrix-like soloing ability. Note that this collection is primarily instrumental studio brainstorming and was never intended for release. Hazel's 1977 solo album, Games, Dames & Guitar Things, is recommended first, since it features a more polished sound actually intended for mass release, along with songs to actually accompany the jamming; unfortunately, that album is near impossible to find. Either way, this is still a fine collection of Hazel's unreleased studio work from the late '70s that will provide ample insight to this man's ongoing legacy as an under appreciated funk-metal guitarist.