Roy Ayers Ubiquity - He's Coming (Verve Vault)

Roy Ayers reached a defining point with He’s Coming, a 1972 release on Polydor that finds Ubiquity settling into the rich fusion of jazz improvisation, funk rhythms, soul and spiritual expression that would come to define Ayers’ work through the decade. Moving further toward a groove-led sound, the record captures the vibraphonist, composer and bandleader refining the soulful jazz-funk style that became his signature.

Backed by a formidable cast including Harry Whitaker, Sonny Fortune, Billy Cobham and Ron Carter, Ayers builds a warm, expansive sound rooted in rhythm and atmosphere. Tracks such as 'He’s a Superstar', 'Sweet Butterfly of Love' and 'Fire Weaver' move between streetwise storytelling, spiritual themes and infectious grooves, offering an early glimpse of the sound that would later inspire generations of soul, funk and hip-hop artists.