Ralph MacDonald - Sound of a Drum

A landmark late-1970s jazz-funk and Caribbean fusion album from master percussionist Ralph MacDonald, Sound of a Drum puts one of the era's most important session musicians firmly in the spotlight. MacDonald's percussion and conga work is surrounded by a remarkable cast of jazz, funk and studio talent, creating a richly rhythmic record that moves effortlessly between sophisticated jazz, soul, funk and Caribbean influences.

The personnel is exceptional, including Grover Washington Jr., Bob James, Eric Gale, Richard Tee, Chuck Rainey, Rick Marotta, Arthur Jenkins Jr., Toots Thielemans, Nicholas Marrero and others, with vocal appearances from Patti Austin and Zachary Sanders. The album was produced by Ralph MacDonald and William Salter, the songwriting team also responsible for major hits including “Where Is the Love” and “Just the Two of Us.”

Selections include “Sound of a Drum,” “Where Is the Love,” “The Only Time You Say You Love Me (Is When We're Making Love),” “Jam on the Groove,” “Mister Magic” and “Calypso Breakdown.” The latter became one of MacDonald's signature compositions and is a standout example of his ability to bring Caribbean rhythm into the sophisticated New York jazz-funk sound of the period.

Recorded and mixed at Rosebud Recording in New York, Sound of a Drum is an excellent record for collectors of percussion-driven jazz, 1970s fusion, funk and groove-oriented music.