Masterjam

When Chaka Khan left Rufus in 1978 she became a huge solo success, while her former band floundered with the Chaka-less Numbers. Thankfully, everything was righted when she and Rufus reunited for Masterjam in late 1979. Clearly, the time away helped the group refocus their energy. The accomplishment is due in large part to producer Quincy Jones, whose simultaneous work with Michael Jackson and the Brothers Johnson made him the perfect candidate to mold the Rufus sound. Jones brought with him songwriter-arranger Rod Temperton, whose “Live in Me” and “Masterjam” set the tone. The album resounds with snappy, punchy grooves, beginning with the one-two punch of “Do You Love What You Feel” and “Any Love.” The music is rooted in the disco era, but with its slick grooves and candy hooks, the songs point towards the sound of early-'80s R&B. As always, Chaka steals the show, and her irrepressible but highly toned voice is the focal point of every track. “Heaven Bound” and “What Am I Missing?” are reminders that the band’s lusty mix of jazz, funk and pop has eternal appeal.