So much more than a source of samples
Feted by hip hop aristocracy – Shadow constantly namechecks him, his work on actor David McCallum’s “The Edge” (included here) was sampled by Dr Dre on “Next Episode” - Axelrod’s pyschedelic soul/funk/jazz productions are as impressive as Spector’s Wall Of Sound. Trademark epic string and brass arrangements, backed by cavernous drum breaks, are represented on this 27 track double CD by a wide selection of solo material – plenty not available on Stateside’s two previous ‘Axe’ compilations – alongside equally inventive collaborations with, amongst others, Electric Prunes and Cannonball Adderly. 2000’s impressive ‘comeback’ gets a nod for his reunion with Lou Rawls, but misguided 90’s indulgences are, wisely, overlooked.
