Artist page

Lafayette Afro Rock Band was formed in Long Island, NY, but in 1971, they relocated to France, feeling that America was already overloaded with funk acts. After the 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 inhabited by African immigrants. Their driving funk began to incorporate African rhythms and textures. Following their 1973 debut LP, Jaubert changed the group's name to Lafayette Afro Rock Band. In 1974, they released their second album, 'Soul Makossa' (issued in the U.S. as 'African Rhythms'), featuring the oft-covered and much-sampled track 'Hihache'. Their follow-up album included 'Darkest Light', which had a desolate saxophone intro later sampled by for the track 'Show 'Em Whatcha Got'. With the 1976 release, the group reverted to the Ice moniker. In 1978, they returned to America, where they disbanded shortly after. Although little known in their native U.S., the Lafayette Afro Rock Band was one of the premier funk outfits of the 1970s and became a significant source of samples and breaks for various artists.

For any edit requests, please reach out to info@rovr.live