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The Lafayette Afro Rock Band, originally formed as ICE in Long Island, NY, relocated to France in 1971. After frontman returned to the U.S., the remaining members renamed themselves and became the house session band at producer's Parisound studio. They regularly performed live in Paris' Barbès district, which was primarily home to African immigrants. Their funk sound evolved to incorporate African rhythms and textures. Following their 1973 debut LP, Jaubert changed the group's name to the Lafayette Afro Rock Band. In 1974, they released their second album, 'Soul Makossa' (issued in the U.S. as 'African Rock'), featuring the well-known and frequently sampled track 'Hihache.' Their subsequent album included 'Darkest Light,' which has a saxophone intro later sampled by for the track 'Show 'Em Whatcha Got.' In 1976, the group reverted to the Ice moniker. They returned to America in 1978 but disbanded soon after. Although not widely recognized in the U.S., the Lafayette Afro Rock Band was one of the leading funk outfits of the 1970s and became a significant source of samples and breaks for various artists.

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