Nils Landgren Funk Unit - 5000 Miles (1999)

On 5,000 Miles, trombonist Nils Landgren and his "Funk Unit" explore a variety of different types of funk. The opening "Da Funk" is a throwaway with some rap, vocals, and brief trumpet blasts by Roy Hargrove. Rap is also utilized a little on "Stop By," but otherwise this is an instrumental set. Trumpeter Tim Hagans is fine during his two guest appearances, Hargrove has a spot on "Sisters of Arequipa," and trombonist Fred Wesley takes an excellent solo on "Six Beauties on a Rooftop" (as does altoist Per Rusktrask Johansson). The music ranges from early fusion and an atmospheric funk ballad ("5,000 Miles") to some late-'60s-type funk jazz and some rockish vamps. Not everything works equally well (some grooves last a minute too long), but in general this set holds one's interest, and dancers will have nothing to complain about! ~ Scott Yanow