Head Hunters

two songs I liked and the other two were so-so, IMO.

5/5

Good, jazzy

Just pure genius

An instrumental jazz/funk album with just 4 tracks. I enjoyed it but I wasn't overly enthusiastic about it. Sometimes it gets to be a little much (but only sometimes).

The essential jazz fusion album. Groovy as hell and a great gateway into the genre but also has some proper weird moments like the squealing synth solo in Chameleon

Sí! Este jazz me gusta. Tiene funk y ese ánimo de desacato que tan bien le hace.

I have nostalgia for this album because we played two of the songs in high school jazz band. Good album. Standouts: Chameleon and Watermelon Man.

Sometimes I think about how I'm wasting precious music listening time with this project.

A alluring musical experience that takes you through blended genres masterfully. Best Song: Sly Worst Song: Watermelon Man

I've never really listened to jazz(-fusion), and this was a nice introduction to that. The soundscape is very layered, it's groovy and sound so ahead of its time. Changed the rating to a 5 as I've grown to love Herbie's projects, and this probably his best. The trip the album takes you on is so rewarding, especially on Sly. It feels like you're dragged into this immense chatoic and colorful world, and in the end you land safe and sound thinking back to that experience with pure bliss. Best song: Sly Worst song: Vein Melter

that one synth line

4/5 super good

Four song, 41 minute album. I wasn’t expecting much, but it was actually a decent listen for an instrumental, jazz album. I could listen to this again.

Instrumental was a nice switch

6/10 cool, cool, cool. yep. 11-1-2024

Head Hunters is a mixed album for me. It's also a good example of jazz elements I like and dislike. There are some good funky sections, but then every song feels like it outstays its welcome. Jazz songs can feel like they aren't really going anywhere, and that's how Head Hunters makes me feel. There is clear skill involved, and it has enjoyable moments, but it has the classic erratic feeling like a mad, erratic keyboard player is chasing me down the road in a ridiculously bright yellow suit and I just want it to be over with.

The Funk/Soul bits are amazing, the Jazz bits I don't find hip. Middle of the road for me.

Now this is the kind of music I'm looking for! I don't want another hundred British new wave and electronica albums, I want stuff like this! Despite not having any words, this album speaks to me. Head Hunters is amazing. Of course, I can't praise the writing or singing since those things don't exist in this album, so all I have to praise is the instrumental sound. Fortunately, I love the sound of this album. The blend of jazz and funk (junk, if you will) is wonderful. Some of these songs are pretty long, but they never drag. Speaking of songs, there's only 4 of them and they're all great. "Chameleon" is an excellent opener. It's the album's longest song, but it absolutely warrants the 16 minutes of runtime. "Watermelon Man" has this really unique sound that I absolutely love. "Sly" is just crazy in the best way possible. Finally, "Vein Melter" is a solid closer. It's pretty chill and I really like it, even if it is probably the weakest song on the album. Overall, this album's great. I will now eagerly wait for more albums like this. If only this website could give me some Miles Davis soon. I've heard his stuff is kind of similar to this. If so, I'm in for a treat with those. For now, Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock gets a light 5/5.

No me gustan los álbumes explicitamente instrumentales, sin embargo pude entrar en código para éste disco casi que instantáneamente, estuvo muy bien, lo escucharía de nuevo cocinando

Haha deze kende ik al, fucking banger

Song I liked the most: Sly Song I liked the least: Chameleon (liked the start of it but it lost me in the middle) Actual rating: 3 stars. I wouldn't be mad if someone put this on to play, but I wouldn't chose to play it myself

Listened Before? N Yep, 70s jazz. Too bad the porn industry decided to make this style of music into "porn music" because that's all I can think of when listening. It was okay. Not really a fan of the long jam style here but it works alright. Added to Library? N Songs added to playlist: Chameleon

It was enjoyable and an easy listen.

Not bad. Sometimes it's nice to have a little instrumental music.

Chunky but funky

Acid Jazz.. I think. High Tempo instrumental funk and jazz.

A neat Electric Jazz record mixed with Funk and Rock, though it does eventually feel repetitive and long. I think it works as ambient/background music, but not a record I could just “sit down and listen to”. Favorite track: Watermelon Man

Zaskakująco fajnie. Przyjemne płukanie jakiś jazzik czy coś. 4/5

Groovy!!! S erste Lied findi ganz smooth. Ech gsehn mech in Zuekunft dezue bim choche vome Gaumeschmaus d Hüft Schwinge. Paar Abschnitt vo de Lieder sind es bitzli zu experimentel oder oder wiederholend, aber s Album als Ganzes findi solide und erfrüschend. @Nedi: Bi de Flöte am Afang vom zweite Lied heds grad en chliine Schmuntzler geh, wells mech grad am Yanick sini Showilag bim Lied vom Nicola Cruz erinnert het.

Chameleon isch scho en maximale ihstiig ih das Album, wo scho fast s 5-Sterne-Rating Hine füre gspienslet het. De moderni, wildi Jazz, paaret mit Funk und eme sprützer synthi holt mich sehr guet ab als chline Funkophil. Die restliche tracks hani au gnosse aber die sind mer denn weniger usgliche gsi wie Chameleon, entweder zu "klassisch jazzig" oder fast z wild. Darum leider uf es 4i müsse abrunde.

im hintergrund la laufe gid es schöni stimmig, aber es bar sequenze sind au ahstränged biz zu vollglade. De ganz jazzi ihfluss chund au recht smooth übere. pörf zum chöne entdecke und is weekend glyde. De neduzen gid ihne de: ‚good to know’ und ‚will listen somewhen again’ award. Knapp an 4sterne verbigsäglet Ps: Geil dass es nur 4 songs sind, defür langi

Uf das hani mi scho gfreut hehe Gfalltmer sehr, Chameleon & Watermelon Man beste!

han mi eigentli sit ahfang ah uf de herbie gfreut aber bin die letschte täg eher in bier und zigi stimmig gsi als in whiskey und zigarre stimmig aber weni zrugdenke an moment woni s‘album s’erst mal glost han hanis scho extrem stark gfunde! riese meilestei im jazz, also gids vo mir 4 stern, eine für jedes "H" als ahfangsbuechstabe bim künstler- & albumname <3

Interesting album. I particularly like the weird syncopation with the flutes in "watermelon man". It's definitely a departure from my typical 2-4min lyric-heavy tracks, but something that I could be happy growing familiar with

Boooooooorrrriiiiiinnnggggggggggggg

This is the first album I listened to after a long break. Love the breakneck jazzy paste and bizareness of it, especially how it doesnt overstay its welcome

Very jazzy. Very Enjoyable. A good addition

This was one of the best albums I've never heard in this app. Stereo was turned up to 11.

Fresh and fun 50 years later! This album was my first experience with Jazz. My middle school home room teacher played it on a record player. He seemed out of touch back in the age of cassettes and pop, but I sure appreciated the introduction later in life. Thanks, Mr Mac.

Funky as hell. Usually a little hesitant about albums with 4 songs, but really liked this one.

Chameleons was good but too long, then the rest of the album was too short! Watermelon Man was great.

Too long, too repetitive. Completely failed to grab my attention. Hardly works as background music.

Le super album trop groovy pour que tu le touche juste une fois. Trop de bombe pour un et un plus deux tu n'auras, capiche?

Is R2D2 malfunctioning?

a very familiar listen for me at this point! this album was one of a few that provided me a "way in" when I was first trying to get familiar with the history of jazz. I was an alt-rock and prog kid first, and I was about 4-5 years into my journey as a saxophonist, so at first I gravitated towards various flavors of fusion. fusion often has one foot in the world of rock music, but the universe of funk music presented here by Herbie and His Hunters was something alien for me at the time. having listened to this album dozens of times for over a decade, I've come to really appreciate the overall mood it places me in. it really feels like funk music that got inflicted with a heavy dose of jazz, rather than the other way around. the pockets from Hancock's rhythm section (Paul Jackson, Harvey Mason & Bill Summers) run incredibly deep; they're just as capable of creating that signature hypnosis-through-repetition effect of the best funk (the opening few minutes of "Chameleon" being the best example) as they are at providing a playground for Hancock and Bennie Maupin to weave some incredible jazz yarns (Maupin's soprano solo on "Sly" is easily the highlight of the whole record for me). the lack of a guitar (other than the bass guitar, I mean) definitely gives the timbre of this album a kind of dryness that really works in its favor. the arrangement of "Watermelon Man" here may be the definitive version of the song; the bridge on Ab7 is a welcome addition that I miss when I play the Takin' Off version on jam sessions (ditto for the entire form of "Chameleon" with all the different bridge sections and solo vamps!). "Vein Melter" also grows on me a little more each time I listen; the synth strings on that track, and throughout the album, are the one part I would say hasn't aged as well as the rest. on the whole I was shocked at how contemporary this album still sounds in many respects, especially "Vein Melter", which stands out as a precursor to the ground that experimental groups like The Necks would later break. I guess I'm just a sucker for ambient, extended harmonies over a slow drum pattern! an album I can listen to at any time, in any place, and guarantee myself a good 42 minutes. strong 9/10.

pretty funky

First song instantly put a smile on my face with the funky intro lick

loved 1st song. rest meh

Il y a des jours où ce projet ressemble à une promenade de santé. On tombe sur une pépite oubliée, on redécouvre un classique sous un nouvel angle, on se prend une claque monumentale qui nous rappelle pourquoi on aime la musique à ce point. Et puis, il y a des jours comme aujourd'hui. Des jours où le grand livre sacré, la bible des "1001 Albums", nous tend un disque en nous disant : "Agenouille-toi et vénère, mortel !", et où tout ce que notre âme de vieux con peut répondre, c'est un "Bof..." sonore et un peu gêné. Aujourd'hui, mes amis, j'ai commis un sacrilège. J'ai écouté "Head Hunters" de Herbie Hancock, et je lui ai collé une note qui ferait passer un album de K-Maro pour une oeuvre d'art : 1 sur 5. Voilà, c'est dit. Le couperet est tombé. Je sens déjà les puristes affûter leurs saxophones pour venir me démembrer sur la place publique. Comment, moi, ancien disquaire, ex-animateur radio, je peux passer à côté d'un tel monument ? Un disque qui a propulsé le jazz-funk dans la stratosphère, qui s'est vendu par palettes entières, qui a influencé des générations de musiciens de funk, de soul et même de hip-hop. Un disque qui, selon le dogme, est l'alpha et l'oméga du groove intelligent. Eh bien, je vais vous dire comment. En m'asseyant, en mettant le vinyle sur la platine, et en me faisant royalement chier. Pardonnez mon langage, mais il n'y a pas d'autre mot. Pour comprendre mon point de vue, il faut resituer le bonhomme. Je suis né en 1970. L'adolescence, c'était les guitares sales du punk et la froideur synthétique de la new wave. Le début de ma vie d'adulte, c'était le bruit blanc de Sonic Youth et la fureur de Nirvana. Quand je bossais à la radio, je passais du Pixies, du Fugazi, du Pavement. Au magasin de disques, je défendais corps et âme les pépites indie rock contre les assauts de la soupe commerciale. Le jazz, pour moi, c'était ce rayon un peu poussiéreux au fond du magasin, fréquenté par des types en col roulé qui parlaient de "modes doriens" et de "signatures rythmiques en 7/4". Des types qui, soyons honnêtes, me filaient un peu les jetons. Alors, quand le grand livre m'a ordonné d'écouter "Head Hunters", j'ai obéi, mais avec la même appréhension que si on m'avait forcé à regarder un match de curling. Le disque s'ouvre sur "Chameleon". Quinze minutes. QUINZE. Je viens d'un monde où un album entier des Ramones dure à peine plus longtemps. Pendant quinze minutes, ça groove, ça funk, ça ondule. Objectivement, c'est impressionnant. Les musiciens sont des monstres de technique. La production est léchée, parfaite. Herbie Hancock tripote ses synthés ARP et son Fender Rhodes avec une dextérité qui force le respect. La ligne de basse est un serpent qui s'enroule autour de vos chevilles. C'est propre, c'est carré, c'est... chirurgical. Et c'est précisément ça, le problème. "Head Hunters", pour moi, c'est l'antithèse du rock 'n' roll. Il n'y a aucune crasse, aucune urgence, aucune faille. C'est une démonstration de virtuosité, une branlette de musicos de haut vol qui s'écoutent jouer. Chaque note est parfaitement à sa place, chaque solo est millimétré. Ça suinte le talent, mais ça manque désespérément de sang et de sueur. On est plus proche d'un exercice de style pour conservatoire que d'un cri primal balancé à la face du monde. J'entends le groove, je comprends l'intention, je vois l'influence. Mais merde, qu'est-ce que ça m'ennuie ! C'est le genre de disque parfait pour mettre en fond sonore dans un bar lounge hors de prix où les cocktails coûtent le prix d'un rein. C'est de la musique d'ascenseur de luxe. Le disque entier ne contient que quatre putains de morceaux. Quatre ! Après les quinze minutes de "Chameleon", on se tape une relecture de "Watermelon Man", puis "Sly" et enfin "Vein Melter". Chacun est un prétexte à des jams interminables, des solos qui n'en finissent plus de finir, des explorations sonores qui m'ont donné envie de m'ouvrir les veines avec le saphir de ma cellule. Je sais, je suis dur. Je suis même probablement injuste. Je reconnais sans peine l'importance historique de l'album. En 1973, c'était révolutionnaire. Ça a ouvert des portes, ça a cassé des barrières entre les genres. Ça a prouvé que le jazz pouvait être populaire sans se vendre au diable. C'est un album fondateur, un pilier du jazz-funk, une pierre angulaire, mettez tous les superlatifs que vous voulez. Mais le but de ce blog, ce n'est pas de réciter sagement la leçon. C'est aussi de confronter ces oeuvres mythiques à mon ressenti, à mon histoire. Et mon histoire, c'est celle d'un mec qui a besoin que la musique le bouscule, le griffe, le surprenne par sa folie ou sa fragilité. "Head Hunters" ne fait rien de tout ça. Il glisse sur moi comme de l'eau sur les plumes d'un canard. C'est trop poli, trop parfait, trop... adulte. Alors voilà. 1 sur 5. Une note pour la postérité, pour la place dans l'histoire. Mais pour le plaisir ? Le zéro pointé. Ce projet "1001 Albums" est une aventure, et toutes les étapes ne sont pas des extases. Parfois, on traverse un désert. Pour moi, "Head Hunters" fut un désert de groove, une immensité aride de notes parfaitement exécutées. Allez, sans rancune, Herbie. Je retourne à mes guitares qui saignent et à mes chanteurs qui gueulent faux. On ne se refait pas. Surtout pas à 55 balais.

Still holds up!

This was a surprise, jazzy but not complete random noises, I found myself really getting into this

Watermelon man yes !!!

A four track noodely album? Is there any real point to this?

Not the easiest of jazz albums to listen to but ground breaking all the same. "Chameleon" is a true classic.

4.5

Really great to listen to

This feels almost prototypical. This guy must have been having a lot of fun experimenting with those synths. It's also a lot of fun to listen to.

Oh man, I fucking love Head Hunters. First heard Watermelon Man as an example of poly-rhythm in a History of Music class I took in college, and it is one of a few songs that I immediately fell in love with. Off to a funky start on Chameleon with the plonky synthesized bass line. Layers of pleasure a built on top of that simple line and tight-shifting drum beat holding it all together. The groove established around the 8:30 point with the key soloing is just fantastic. The whole introduction to Watermelon Man is incredibly gratifying. When the drum and bass enter the equation everything just clicks. The rest of the song is a certified head-bobber. Thick globs of bass with soulful sax and keys with some sex guitar licks floating around in the background. Honestly, what's not to love? Sly taps into a Shaft like funky shuffle. Love everything here 5/5

A bit odd at the start, but settled in nicely. I like that it's just 4 songs. Vein Melter is a great name for a song.

I have 1 word to describe that album: Glonky.

Trying to think of where I know this first song from... It's Cellphone's Dead by Beck! Listened to a bunch of this grocery shopping and I must've looked like a mad man boppin around the store. Some top notch jazzy fusion. Props Herbs.

Funky, don't often listen to instrumental

Good album. Cool jazz.

Enjoyed this, sounds at times way before its time. Nice, alternative view of how jazz could sound. The second track has a little bit to it that often gets stuck in my head and it’s bugged me for a long time about where its from, so I’m especially glad this record popped up to end this particular epic saga. Not quite as good as when he was with Miles, but definitely up there. Will be back

This flew by, would have thought the run time was half the 40 mins it actually was. Herbie's grounding in Jazz is clear but this is funky and a bit electronic. Thought it worked brilliantly and was something I hadn't quite heard before. I'm not going to be sticking this on repeat or anything so I feel I can't give it a 5 but a strong 4.

I enjoy how frenetic the record is. Rarely drags, which is pleasantly surprising for jazz. I wouldn't necessarily choose to listen to the album again though. Watermelon Man was my favourite.

This was pretty decent! Much better than I expected it to be, given that jazz isn't usually my thing. Think a strong 3.5

Absolutely phenomenal album plated five times today.

Never knew this guy as anything except the dude who bit Huey Lewis’ sound for the Ghostbusters theme. This was pretty enjoyable and not too long.

He's jammin pretty hard. The album cover is also super cool. Will I listen to again: 100%

Smooth jazz. A welcome change from the crap of the last few days. Well done.

I somehow was unfamiliar with Herbie Hancock. I don’t typically like jazz but I was pleasantly surprised. I found this very fun to listen to - especially the first song, Chameleon. It didn’t feel like the typical jazz chaos I’m used to?

About 30 seconds of a very nice beat, Which then, the artists kindly decided to follow it with 30 minutes of some of the softest, smelliest, ugliest, most disgusting shite I've heard. Good job! You stupid fucks!

groovy

What can I say. My dad was a musician so we had jazz, classical and world music on in the kitchen pretty much every day. I deeply adore Herbie Hancock, and this album is spectacular. My soul feels nourished, touched and tingled in all the right ways.

Funky stuff! I liked the first songs more then the last

Very nice l

oof those opening notes. Yass. Smooth & funky.

Ok, I've heard it now. It's a classic unfurling of Herbie music. I've a better track on my squirreled away set of music, but as a series of tracks laid down in one setting and it's pure joy, it is very fine. 4 stars. Will listen to again. Not premiere music for me, just very fine.

Super funky and innovative. Really surprised me in a good way.

I liked Headhunters, it's funky, it's jazz made more accessible in that way, it's quite catchy, lasts a bit too long with some repetition that loses your attention but most of it is a very likeable jam, high 3 maybe low 4.

This was fun, a nice, funky but relatively chilled listen. Maybe a bit too much repetition in places, but a very nice easy listen. A high 3/5.

What the hell did I just listen? Chameleon is a super complex song. I think the whole album is meant to be listen as a journey as it’s planned. It kicks off very groovy and improvised and ends in a mellow way

Gorgeous record. Have loved Chameleon for years anyway, but the whole thing is just slick and cool AF.

So dull, got bored very, very quickly.

I was a little taken aback when first seeing that this record ran 40 minutes in length with only four songs. Right from the jump I could see why “Chameleon” is one of Herbie Hancock’s most popular works. The whole song is built on an infectious groove with a variety of keyboard improv galore. I was disappointed a bit that there was no guitars to be found on the album at all. Seems to be more of a passive listen. The songs display cream of the crop jazz-fusion musicianship, but as with buy and large instrumental compositions, a lot of it is not necessarily memorable to non-jazz enthusiasts, including myself. Sly was my favorite track.

Sounds like a mashup of if you gave a middle schooler in jazz band a MIDI keyboard and a somewhat competent musician. Preface, I hate jazz. In listening to what this record for what it is, an instrumental jazz record, it's fine. Tracks one and three were bearable. I had heard chameleon before and it is what it is. There was some cool throwing in of South American rhythms and instruments here and there which was cool I suppose. From the viewpoint of an instrumental jazz record, I would maybe give this a seven out of 10. For my personal taste, three out of 10. I also definitely do not want to meet or be friends with the person who listens to this record often and on ironically likes it. This is the same type of person who probably thinks Jacob Collier is a god. That's all. Glad I got to listen to this record, but probably once is more than enough. Sorry, Herbie.

I love funk, and I'm instantly into this. 5* Watermelon man sounded familiar but I can't place it.

Alright

A good blend of jazz, funk and rock. Fairly typical of 70's jazz fusion albums. Enjoyable listen. That said, I'm not a fan of 7,8,9+ minute songs that drag on, so that drops this one to a 3/5 for me.

Neat. Jazz. IDK i don't think i really appreciate it as much as I should.

I can definitely see why he had crossover success. It's very much of his genre, but it is also good enough to stand on its own. It's a good listen

Great writing from a generational talent.

Now we’re up on it. Hit me with more funk.

LOOOOVEEEEEEEEEE

Can’t hold no grove if you ain’t got a pocket … and this album is a pouch! Hope you had lots of driving to do today

quite fun

I should give the caveat that I’m not a huge jazz enthusiast. I do really like certain forms of jazz (typically Latin styles or in big band formats), but I don’t often find myself choosing to listen to it over other genres. This album is no exception. It’s got a great jazz/funk fusion feel with some sounds that were very different and new for the time when it was released. However, it’s a bit out there in style for better or worse. For as revolutionary as it is, it now comes off to me as something to play on the side, vibe out to, and let fade into the background while working on something.

I liked it a lot better than I usually do with jazz music. The first track was a great fusion of funk and jazz; it's my favourite. 3.5 stars

Chameleon rules

Not my style of music, experimental jazz and rock are not for me.

Jazz and the 70s is not a good mix. The funk element redeems in places

Chad

Funky, last song was nothing. Soft 4

Funkier and rock-ier than the type of jazz I usually like, but it was refreshing and a lot of fun. Even though there are just four long tracks, there’s a great deal of variety both within and between them, and I never got bored or eager for it to end. Something I’ve never heard of and am happy to have listened to!

Tracks 1-2: Engaging, funky, yet very calming. Track 3: A journey through a head of a mad jazzman. Track 4: Rest after the journey.

Yeah... Not really sure what that was.

Gran disco. El track 3, “Sly”, me parece absolutamente genial. Perfecto para una noche de chill y copas.

More fun to skip through than to listen to.

I haven't heard this album before. Good album. Not something I'd listen to often.

Good but not ny thing. Nothing that I could hold on to.

Incongruously, this made for good background music while driving around the south of Iceland. Not something I would normally seek though.

Not as iconic as his famous movie score, but relatable and enjoyable. Probably not a go-to for me, but I did enjoy it and nothing here I didn't enjoy.

Meh...nothing really exciting here.

Pretty sure this guy signed the Declaration of Independence. Album started fun then got boring

Awesome, fun, groovey jazz music. 3.5 stars

Overall: groovy. You can tell they had fun making this album. Some tracks are quite long-winded and chaotic but, for the most part, I did enjoy it. Made me want to grow a moustache and become a cop in the 1970s (I am a 30-year-old British female). Would I come back to this album? I think I would if I was looking for instrumental music to work to, but probably wouldn’t stray past Track 2. For an instrumental album, I’d give it 3 stars but generally speaking I’d give it 2. Best song: Watermelon Man Track 1 - Chameleon - very groovy start. Very 70s. Wow this song is 15 minutes long. No wonder there are only 4 tracks on this album. My attention span isn’t long enough for this. By the end I was really looking forward to changing it up. Track 2 - Watermelon Man - it took me a while to come back to this album because I really struggle to get excited for instrumental-only albums. #bandkidtrauma This one is a bit different. Did this band influence Childish Gambino by any chance? Or did he sample this? Quite cool. Enjoyed this one. Track 3 - Sly - This is potentially a good one to use as an alternative for the Avengers Theme when I’m rushing to do last minute bits for work. It’s so chaotic that it’s making me feel stressed and I’m just sat looking out the window. Perfect for rushing about. Not the biggest fan of the last 2-3 mins though. Becomes a bit too ‘jazz’ for me. Track 4 - Vein Melter - this is very mysterious woman in a dimly-lit smoky room vibes. Weirdly also gives me Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds and The Sims vibes in parts too. The soundtrack for the coolest film you’ll never see.

Blew me away. Gonna get it on vinyl!

Funky but repetitive experimental jazz.

funk

I listened to this in the background with a lot of other stuff going on (Currier dhall) but I liked the funky jazz!

Fav: Sly Least Fav: Vein Melter Was dreading this as a 41 minute album with 4 songs did not seem very appealing to me, but to my surprise the album was as great and the individual song length wasn’t even as issue. Best jazz and best funk album I’ve heard so far.

I really like this music! But I think it suffers from being on an album. This stuff just has to be heard live.

Enjoyed this album…not sure why but I did.

Not really my thing, sounds like something made up by the mighty boosh. Sure it is great for someone who loves jazz. Just not my scene

A pleasant enough album not one I would listen to alot

I've never listened to this album before, but had a feeling that I was going to love it. This immediately made my morning better - fantastic.

I enjoyed this album.

A quintessential ‘70s jazz record, with all the creative chemistry and forward thinking that made this era of the genre so great

Probably Herbie's best. It's a funky album that influenced plenty of acts that I listen to now. Pretty good stuff.

herbie hancock loves to lie.

«Ya like jazz» Well, yes and no, thank you Mr Seinfeld. Or Barry B. Benson or whatever. I enjoy ambient jazz for example, with its slow and quiet melodies, perfect in the background while a small group converse. Or big band jazz with its grandiose and larger-than-life sound boasting through the room. And then, there is this. I went in, not knowing who either Herbie Hancock or what a Head Hunter was. (That’s a lie, I have read Jo Nesbø) I put on the album and was intrigued by the synths and the building of the music. Then, when the instruments had jammed a bit, I waited for the vocals… and I waited But the moment never came. Okay sure, that is the kind of album this is. It’s instrumental jazz. And that is fine. But I just kept thinking “this part would be great with some vocals”. Instead the instruments do the job the vocals usually do. And there is many great solos by a lot of different instruments on this album. To write music for so many instruments is impressive in itself. I like most of if not all of these solos. But then there’s these parts where there are too many instruments playing at once, these parts often get chaotic and sometimes even wearying. So yea, I like to think that I like jazz, but sometimes, it just gets a bit too… jazzy, I guess? See you next time Jerry! Favorite tracks: I like parts of all of them, but I mean they are just so looong. The start of Chameleon and most of the second half of Sly. 5/10

awesome jazz! maybe the sax is a wee bit dominant...

Not really my thing but I can appreciate the musical skill behind it. Initiatly I wasn't interested, but as I listened I quite enjoyed what I was hearing. It probably deserves another listen but I probably won't get around to listening to it.

Funk from the future beamed into the past.

it should not have taken me this long to listen to this album. incredibly good, incredibly important - classic 5 star material

Not for me

Some great jazz!

Groovy af

Fuck ya Jazz! Herbie is a legend and I've been wanting to listen to more jazz anyway so automatic 4/5

I don’t particularly care for jazz, but this wasn’t bad.

Super fun and funky. Never gets boring. A great album to put yourself in a good mood

Phenomenal instrumentals. I wish more music like this existed.

Great jazz album

Very funky good stuff. Good working music. Should try to listen while not working too

Restores my faith in funk.

This was a much needed respite after a particularly brutal week of Bruce Sprinsteen, Syd Barrett, Culture Club and Kid Rock. Sometimes the generator taketh, but today it giveth.

Very cool

First time for Herbie. Cool, funky jazz but halfway through everything started to sound the same

Groovy

Solid jazz.

I was watching The Grammy Awards at my parents' house some time in the late aughts, and at the end of the ceremony, Herbie Hancock won the award for Album of the Year. When he was announced as the winner my dad turned to me and asked "isn't that the guy who did the music video with all the mannequin parts back in the eighties?" And that's all I know about Herbie Hancock. I've been pretty lukewarm on most of the jazz albums I've reviewed, because I'm not super familiar with jazz, and I have no clue what to listen for, but this album sounds like it might be more aligned with my musical tastes. There's only one way to find out! Well, I really wanted to love this album, but I thought it was just fine. The blending of funk and jazz created a really unique sound, and the whole album was really interesting. The arrangements were really good, and all of the instruments and funky sounds worked really well together. The thing that made me not enjoy this album so much is that it was A LOT to take in. I'm not averse to longer songs on principal, but this album was just tough to digest because so much was happening on each song. There were parts of each song that I liked, and I enjoyed the structure of the songs, but the songs felt like they stretched themselves too thin in a sense. Still, this was an interesting album, it just wasn't my cup of tea. We'll always have "Rockit" though, Herbie.

Started to enjoy it, but it became repetitive before the first song had finished.

Vibey

Not for my taste, but I see why people would enjoy this. Good work, really. Just not a genre I'd like.

Good funky jazz but didn't grab me.

Easy listening, fun enough

This is quite easily one of the best albums ever made by anyone

Hancock! immer wieder anzutreffen auf der ganzen welt. mir gefällt die mischung von funk und jazz, auch wenn es dann irgendwann gut ist .. spätestens nach 3x „repeat“ des albums ist dann „rinse“ mit anderer musik angesagt.

Die Platte ist mir etwas zu jazzige.

My new favourite Jazz album. Shit was fantastic :)

Une exploration, semble très délibéré et réfléchi, pas hermétique, mais certainement rébarbatif à certains moments

big3

Heard of Herbie Hancock, but never heard this. Amazing, thoroughly enjoyed a couple times.

Herbie is the GOAT. The solos, amazing.

the template for everything that came after. it's not perfect, but it really doesn't need to be. i mean, you don't have to like drinking water to know it's important to everything alive on the planet. i'll put it this way: 100% of all funk owes its existence to James Brown, that is indisputable. in that same vein, 80% of all jazz-funk owes its existence to Head Hunters (with a remaining 20% of consideration for Miles Davis's works in the 70's). what more can i say? Chameleon is everything.

Fun chill jazz album

Only 4 songs but full of funk and soul. 3.6

*put on album* *listen to album* ... Jesus Christ, am I still on track one?

***An ok, short album

Good music that was far too long. Great vibes, wish it was shorter

8.8/10 Quite unusual compilation. I would definitely listen it again.

Fakker med d ass, 4.8

Good but I wouldn’t purposely put it on has to be certain mood for this

I LIKE MY JAZZ DEEP FRIED FUNKY I listened to the first song 4 times before getting a new album generated. That doesn't sound like a lot, but considering that's longer than most albums altogether, I think this rightfully deserves a 5.

Super fun, weird and chaotic. I've heard the name lots before so nice to hear some actual music of his.

Absolutely love the funk built into this. I agree with my fellow reviewer that this is a jazz album for rock fans.

First listen Saved 0/4

Short but sweet.

didnt think i would even get to this cuz ive had a very emotionally draining day, but it got better and this was the cap off to me slowly picking myself up, an album that i knew i liked suddenly clicking as the best thing ive ever heard in my life. its probably not That impressive to perfectly sequence an album thats only four tracks, but the balance of the A and the B side is absolutely perfect, with A as the perfect idiosyncratic introduction and B taking their overall vibes to greater extremes (sly is even more explosive and exciting then chameleon, vein melter is even more chill and relieving then watermelon man). so many instruments here sound nearly unrecognizable, its such a vivid and unique and creative palate that changes up slightly to give every track its own completely different rainbow (and yet still aesthetically Part Of Head Hunters). the band here is godly and every solo knocks me into next week, its hard to tell whether the hyper-disciplined tenseness or the moments of pure explosion hit harder. vibrant, sweaty, unbelievable music

not bad but not really my thing

Listening to this instantly made my walk to the bus stop more fun.

I listened to this record for the first time a year or so ago and was pretty into it. Especially Chameleon. I freaking love jazz fusion.

What a gem! Holy crap. This album rocks. Its so varied in its sounds and totally take the listener on an strange journey. I love how it starts with Chameleon, on the surface its sounds somewhat generic but then it really starts to groove and dig. What blew me away on the second listen was how the synth is matching the brass tones, but its slightly off. Its really trippy, but super cool. I was only able to pick it up when I had headphones on. Also, the synth throughout is just rad. It kind of blows my mind that you can make such rad music on such an annoying sounding instrument. Watermelon Man blew me away. The flute!! I love how it starts and ends. The middle is so groovy and jammy. Sly took me to new levels. I was ripping a downhill mountain bike line while listening to that, and it was just perfect. The percussion gets so crazy and the horns are so tight. Vein Melter is a great way to end the album. Its so chill, not sure if its about heroine. It kind of feels like it might be. Killer album. Stoked to have this one today.

Jazz moderno

One of the best jazz fusion albums that stars slowly but shows his brilliance over time. This band is in harmony and feel like a well oiled machine in the best sense. The last track is the best.

The first couple tracks were wonderful, funky, bouncy, and just perfectly crafted. The last track was a little slow and quiet by comparison, but still wonderfully made and nice to listen to. Four stars.

Damn this is really good. Herbie went hunting heads, and found them. All the heads I knew back in high school gravitated to these tunes. Slapping that vinyl down on the turntable in Clint's dad's place would bring the heads running. The cuervo gold and fine columbian didn't hurt either. But that's a story for a different album.

Absolutely love this album. I think I first stumbled upon it 6 or 7 years ago when I started my first office job and used to listen to full albums on YouTube. I had so many great discoveries from that algorithm, before they decided to start forcing Shorts upon me. I've since got it on vinyl though, which allows for full appreciation of that fantastic album cover. The band look like they are absolutely trippin balls. I can only imagine how incredible it must have been to have heard this for the first time back in the early 70s.

Elkapott pont, fasza volt

It’s lit jazz

Доста найс. Странно, ритмично, преплита линии. 4+

Extended jazz solos aren't really my thing. It was funky though.

I have heard some of Herbie Hancock before ("Rock It"). I was pleasantly surprised to realize I can heard this album before too. It was so ahead of its time- utilizing synth technology fused with jazz instrumentation. Definitely a good listen- great background music.

Experimental

They used to say that this kind of jazz went well with ADHD. I think not. Shit is irritating

Pretty nice

Funk with good rhythm and jams- excellent

Loved this Album. Super techno retro funky. "Chameleon" was my favorite song out of this album.

Some ok jam sesh

As usual with jazz records I enjoyed it for a bit, nodding along with the funky beats, but it's not my favourite genre (on record, I like it live) 3 stars because I got bored in the last track and probably won't listen again, but appreciate the talent of the performers

great instrumentals but I dont realy love the tracks ending

Compared to the previous album this album sounds timeless. It's a little bit chill and full of interesting moments. Hard to pick a fave from 4 tracks but Chameleon drags you in so I'll go with that.

Awwww yeah, this is funky as hell! I've listened to this album once or twice over the years, I'm sure, but it didn't leave much of an impression. Possibly because it works too well as background music. It certainly landed this time though, I really dug it. Fave track - "Chameleon" is awesome. Love the beer bottle on "Watermelon Man", too - I think maybe Cristobal Tapia de Veer heard that and it set off an explosion in his brain and led to his weird wibbly wobbly sound!

This was fine

I didn't enjoy the thingy at the end of watermelon man. was mostly good but if I was paying attention its bc something stood out and not in a good way. I just am not an enjoyer of instrumentals like this.

7/10 - It was a nice relaxing listen while doing homework. Watermelon man was kind of weird but it fit in nicely. I might put this on a chill homework playlist but nothin else.

Pretty good

very trippy 1970's feel. felt very experimental.

Voglio apprezzare il mix di strumenti ma la noia prevale nonostante duri relativamente poco

I would give it a 4.5 it is an amazing funk album but sometimes it feels like it drags for too long but still a great listen

Passed me by peacefully

Funky and cool. Not what I expected. I think I know the 1980's Herbie Hancock so this early 70s funk/jazz fusion was a surprise.

4.5

This is a very good, very funky album. I wonder how much herbie hancock is on this list opposed to how many fucking brit pop bullshit albums the editor decided were important. 5/5

funkier jazz, didn't hate it but didn't want to listen to anymore after 3 songs and there was still 1 left!

Started off not hating it, but by track 3 it was giving me a headache.

Re-invention of a genius!! Worth a listen…

What is this? Space funk jazz? Honestly, the songs are all pretty good, except there is either too much martian noise going on or there is one annoying and incredibly repetitive element that makes me feel like I have just been programmed with a trigger to kill any living being within an arm's radius. To be sure, I won't be listening to this again.

Long songs, but only 4 and funky. First couple were good for a bop, and brought a smile to my face during a meh time. Jazzy. Favourite song was probably Vein Melter for its percussion and chillier tone.

While the musicianship is good, the songs all sound like they were part of a jam session instead of fully fleshed out songs. Don't dislike what I heard but also not interested in revisiting this one.

Herbie Hancock's jazz funk lives rent-free in my head. He just automatically slots into the soundtrack of my life. My jazz band? One of the first songs we ever rehearsed was Watermelon Man. Hancock is just *there*, you know?

Decent. 3/5

Very cool melding of funk and jazz, I really enjoyed this.

not the kind of thing i’m going to slap on for fun but it’s skillful and accomplished

Doesn't give me anything, quality musicians at least

Really nice and funky! Amazing keys

It’s like a party in my head and everyone’s invited!

Its fine but not something I would listen to again. Watermelon Man has particularly annoying backing instruments.

Cool ideas, but didn't always feel connected

Awesome album. HH slipped into jazz funk, smashed it, moved on.

A jazzy Yes!

Nee. Zu experimentell.

awesome music to scare a cat to

5/5

watermelon man, früher tophit des popjazz

4.1/5 listened 3x, cool album

From the first few notes I knew I'd like this album. I recognized it from being sampled by Beck. I think it's more fun to haphazardly discover the origins of samples than to listen to a sample in a song and already know it's source.

ICONIC BASSLINE IS IN THIS ALBUM. funky and groovy basslines.

Прикольная непонятная хренатень, которую интересно послушать один раз. Вызывает позитивные эмоции.

Funky, but with almost 60's-style synth. 11mins in and still just instrumental? Well this music is definitely different from "Rockit"...

Could fall asleep to this (in a bad way). Pretty boring but had just a bit of that jam band essence. If Grateful Dead is a Dr. Pepper, this is a La Croix

song titled watermelon man. enough said. she hand on my cock till i Herbie

Head Hunters is often praised as a landmark in fusion, and I respect what it achieved, but as a listening experience it is uneven. Herbie Hancock mixes funk, jazz, and electronic textures with undeniable technical brilliance, yet at times it feels more like an extended jam than a focused record. The grooves are tight, but they can stretch past the point of enjoyment, turning hypnotic repetition into something that tests patience. “Chameleon” is the obvious standout, both for its influence and for the way it lays down a groove that has been sampled and referenced endlessly. Still, unless you are deeply into jazz-funk experimentation, the record can feel indulgent. It leans cerebral, prioritizing musicianship and innovation over emotional impact. As a piece of history, it deserves all the credit it gets, but that does not make it endlessly replayable. I respect what it represents, even if it is not an album I will find myself coming back to often.

6/10, забавно

yessssss easiest five of my life

Pretty unspectacular

2024-07-12...

Smooth

Chameleon and Watermelon Man are all time. This album introduced me to more funky fusion type projects back in the day. My only critique is that the second pair of songs aren’t as memorable as the first pair, they’re still good, but the hit rate should be a little better for a 4 song album. (4.5/5)

This album is one I already own and is regularly played. I'm so happy it is on this list as I absolutely love it, and it's a form of validation (especially when compared to some of the absolute shite I've encountered on this list already!). It was one of the albums that really turned me on to music. Only four tracks but every one is a gem.

Mostly fun 'n' funky jazz-fusion, if a little long-winded in parts. The highlight was the intro/outro to Watermelon Man, which sounds like exactly the kind of music I'd expect the yellow-headed chap on the cover to make.

Interestingly funky and jazzy. Every time I got to the point that I thought a song was getting boring they changed it up. I can't help thinking that editing the songs down so that I don't get to the point of thinking that it's getting boring would be advantageous though.

LOVE LOVE

Lots of fun to listen to

From the first notes of “Chameleon” I was enthralled, and it didn’t even matter that it became chaotic during “Sly” or sounded like music that would be used on Buck Roger’s.

I liked it at times. Gets a bit cacophonous for me at other times. Enjoyed it more than a lot of jazz I've listened to on this project.

Да здравствует запрограммированный бас!!!

Not my favourite genre. Harmless enough, a bit muzak-y and with a tendency to be unfocused

Jazz

Idk what it is with my generation and our attention spans but 15 minute songs make my butt itch. I recognize it’s great music and it sounds good but my brain (and ears) can’t sit and listen to a song that long. So I guess this rating is more for myself than the actual project 😂 Edit*** I made it to the end of the 15 minute song and that shit ended with some pizzazz (or pijazz if you will) so I’m upping my rating

Chameleon is a classic! 4/5

Outstanding

massive huge vibes

Eh

Love wakin up to some nice smooth jazz. Great composition and some really amazing sections throughout. Some parts got a bit repetitive and could have gone with a few minutes less but still fantastic all around. 8/10

4.5

Despite occasionally deviating into a sound that just doesn't resonate with me, these 4 tracks make up a strong funk and jazz sound.

It was fine. Jazz with a funk beat. Some "spacey" moments. I'm not a huge jazz fan, but I like it in the background while I work sometimes. However, this was too frantic and upbeat for that. Still not unenjoyable.

Pretty unique, quite amazed I haven't heard of them before

man this album is pretty much it. so funky, so effortlessly cool. particularly the first side is iconic. the musicianship from herbie, as well as the entire ensemble is so great. the part of chameleon where it goes out of tune is unfathomably cool. the whole thing is just cool. cooler than cool jazz. front to back.

Good background music

Instrumental, experimental

Like it!

I like it

It was okay. 2 songs were too long for me, as I'm not really into jazz. The album cover alone gets a star.

Ok

This was a pretty groovy album, freeform all the way. The tracks went on a little too long hence not the full 5 stars, but good stuff nonetheless

Not awful but not great. Started strong then I got bored.

For me it’s a no. I find jazz boring. I even played in a jazz band for a few years to try to learn to appreciate the genre. Didn’t work.

I liked "Watermelon Man" a lot, but the rest of the songs were unmemorable to me.

3rd Jazz album in a row, if this can be classed has Jazz? For my purposes I will say it’s more Jazz than any other label Wiki has given it. This the first Herbie Hancock album I have listened to in full so again subscribing to this has taken me places I wouldn’t normally go. I like this album although not as much as the last two list offerings which were more traditional jazz oriented. Quite a lot of synth features which is not a bad thing but my favourite track is Vein Melter. Probably because it borders on the ambient side of things giving a smooth and calming influence. Not an album I would return to in a hurry but was nice to hear as a one off. 2/5 19/6/24

Head Hunters Jazz fusion. Eugh, two words to make you shiver. However this is actually good, in a way that Jamiroquai and Brand New Heavies can only dream of. None of the 90s ironic kitchness, or lounge-lite vapidity, or infuriating blandness. Chameleon - ‘squelchy’. I love the drum sound, very Talking Book Stevie. Banging. Watermelon Man has a definite film soundtrack feel, a bit Curtis Mayfield. Love the synth refrain in the middle. The horns aren’t too jazzy either, which is nice. Sly, I wasn’t as keen on this, a bit too frenetic, although I did like the groove. Vein Melter, I liked this a lot the 2nd and 3rd time round. Again quite a film soundtrack feel, but a very nice chilled low key atmosphere. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would - the jazziness exists in the approach to the synths, organ and musical flourishes, rather than in the whole form. The rhythms, drums, bass and guitars are much more funk/soul influenced, with great grooves. If you take it as a 40 minute piece of music rather than 4 very long tracks then it works really well. Will definitely listen again. A solid and enjoyable 4. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Principalmente un album de jazz fusion Chamaleon, un alto tema y de los más esenciales e icónicos del jazz funk, progresivo, groovero y atrapante Watermelon man tiene sus toques de folk por sus vientos. Sly es súper frenético durante mucho tiempo Vein melter es un tema más tranquilo , más su batería que se mantiene durante tanto tiempo con las mismas notas. En general un buen álbum de jazz fusion.

Easy enough listening. Nothing special.

Fantastic!!!

### In-Depth Review of "Head Hunters" by Herbie Hancock **Album Overview** Released in 1973, "Head Hunters" is a seminal jazz-funk album by Herbie Hancock. It's often considered one of the cornerstones of jazz fusion and has had a profound influence on numerous genres, including funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. The album is notable for its innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments, blending them seamlessly with traditional jazz elements. ### Music and Production **Musicianship and Arrangement** Herbie Hancock's "Head Hunters" is an exceptional showcase of musical prowess and innovative arrangements. The album features Hancock on keyboards, Bennie Maupin on saxophones, clarinets, and flute, Paul Jackson on bass, Harvey Mason on drums, and Bill Summers on percussion. Each musician brings a unique flavor, contributing to a rich tapestry of sound. 1. **"Chameleon"** - The album opens with "Chameleon," a 15-minute epic that immediately sets the tone. The song's iconic bass line, played on an ARP Odyssey synthesizer, is one of the most recognizable in jazz-funk. The piece evolves through several sections, showcasing Hancock's virtuosic keyboard skills and the tight interplay between the band members. The groove is infectious, and the solos are both technically impressive and emotionally engaging. 2. **"Watermelon Man"** - A reimagining of Hancock's 1962 hit, this version of "Watermelon Man" is funkier and more rhythmically complex. The track starts with Bill Summers imitating a pygmy whistle with beer bottles, creating an intriguing introduction. The groove is propelled by Paul Jackson's bass and Harvey Mason's drums, while Bennie Maupin's saxophone provides melodic and improvisational depth. Hancock’s electric piano solo is a standout moment. 3. **"Sly"** - Named after Sly Stone, "Sly" is a high-energy track that pays homage to the funk and soul innovator. The song features a driving beat and intricate keyboard lines. The rhythm section is tight and dynamic, with Harvey Mason's drumming particularly shining. The solos by Hancock and Maupin are energetic and inventive, making this track a highlight of the album. 4. **"Vein Melter"** - The closing track, "Vein Melter," slows things down with a more contemplative and atmospheric approach. The piece is built around a lush, ambient soundscape created by Hancock's keyboards. Maupin's saxophone adds a melancholic touch, while the rhythm section provides a subtle, steady pulse. This track demonstrates the band's ability to create mood and emotion through nuanced playing and arrangement. **Production Quality** The production of "Head Hunters" is groundbreaking for its time. Hancock and co-producer David Rubinson utilized state-of-the-art technology, including synthesizers like the ARP Odyssey and the Fender Rhodes electric piano. The album's mix is clear and balanced, allowing each instrument to shine. The use of electronic instruments was pioneering, paving the way for future explorations in jazz and beyond. - **Pros**: - Innovative use of electronic instruments. - High-quality production and mixing. - Balanced sound that highlights each instrument. - **Cons**: - Some listeners might find the extended solos and long track lengths challenging. - The fusion of styles may not appeal to jazz purists. ### Themes and Influence **Themes** "Head Hunters" is largely instrumental, so the thematic elements are conveyed through the music itself rather than lyrics. The album explores themes of innovation, cultural fusion, and the blending of tradition with modernity. Each track has its own character, contributing to an overall narrative of exploration and experimentation. - **"Chameleon"**: Represents adaptability and change, with its shifting sections and evolving grooves. - **"Watermelon Man"**: Blends African and American musical traditions, reflecting cultural fusion. - **"Sly"**: Celebrates funk and soul music, paying tribute to Sly Stone's influence. - **"Vein Melter"**: Evokes introspection and emotion, suggesting a more personal, internal journey. **Influence** "Head Hunters" has had a lasting impact on a wide range of musical genres and artists. Its influence can be seen in the development of jazz fusion, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. The album's innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments has inspired countless musicians and producers. - **Jazz Fusion**: "Head Hunters" is a landmark in the jazz fusion genre, combining elements of jazz, funk, and rock in a way that was revolutionary at the time. - **Funk**: The album's grooves and rhythms have influenced many funk musicians, including Parliament-Funkadelic and Prince. - **Hip-Hop**: Many hip-hop artists and producers have sampled tracks from "Head Hunters," appreciating its funky beats and innovative sounds. - **Electronic Music**: The use of synthesizers on "Head Hunters" paved the way for future explorations in electronic music, influencing artists like Daft Punk and Flying Lotus. ### Pros and Cons **Pros** 1. **Musical Innovation**: "Head Hunters" broke new ground in its use of electronic instruments and its fusion of different musical styles. Hancock's pioneering use of synthesizers and electric pianos expanded the sonic possibilities of jazz. 2. **Exceptional Musicianship**: The album features stellar performances from all the musicians involved. Each track showcases technical skill, creativity, and tight interplay. 3. **Cultural Impact**: "Head Hunters" has had a profound influence on a variety of musical genres. Its legacy is evident in jazz fusion, funk, hip-hop, and electronic music. 4. **Production Quality**: The album's production is top-notch, with a clear, balanced mix that highlights the innovative use of electronic instruments. **Cons** 1. **Accessibility**: Some listeners may find the album's experimental nature and lengthy tracks challenging. The fusion of styles and extended solos might not appeal to those who prefer more traditional or concise compositions. 2. **Commercial Expectations**: Despite its critical acclaim, "Head Hunters" may not align with the commercial tastes of all listeners. The album's adventurous spirit and genre-blending approach can be polarizing. 3. **Jazz Purism**: Purists might argue that "Head Hunters" strays too far from traditional jazz, with its heavy incorporation of funk and electronic elements. This can be seen as a con for those who prefer classic jazz sounds. ### Conclusion "Head Hunters" by Herbie Hancock is a landmark album that continues to resonate with listeners and influence musicians across various genres. Its innovative use of electronic instruments, exceptional musicianship, and high-quality production make it a standout work in Hancock's discography and in the broader landscape of jazz fusion. The album's strengths lie in its ability to push musical boundaries, its cultural impact, and its timeless grooves. However, its experimental nature and departure from traditional jazz can be challenging for some listeners. Despite these potential drawbacks, "Head Hunters" remains a quintessential listen for anyone interested in the evolution of jazz and its intersection with other musical forms. Herbie Hancock's vision and artistry on "Head Hunters" not only redefined his career but also set a new standard for what jazz could be, blending the past with the future in a way that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

I'm glad that Herbie Hancock returned (mostly) to standards and straight ahead jazz, but I'm grateful that albums like this helped to define funk jazz.

Supremely cool. I liked Chameleon the best, it made me want to dance, so funky. The rest of the album is also very interesting albeit a bit less accessible. 4/4.5

Beautiful album. Could listen to this any time of day. The arrangements bring you into a fantasy world full of curious adventures and playful storylines. Each instrument a unique character’s voice speaking out and telling you it’s story. Jazzy chill vibes that calm the soul.

Obvi just unreal

Some of the best sounds and jams I could ever want

Some of the absolute coolest music ever recorded. the only reasonable complaint one could make about this album is that it's too damn funky!

God I don’t like funk. Seems like it’s good at what it’s trying to be but it’s a slog to listen to.

Not my music but intuition tells me it was well written for the right audience

God damn. This is good.

I love this album. It was groundbreaking at the time But still sounds great and actually still a little bit otherworldly. Hancock’s jazz chops definitely come in to play, but the sound is dark and very funky, which was new at the time. Well, the music can sound very spicy. It doesn’t drift into the stratosphere like Mahavishnu or weather report. The base drums and percussion are present in an intoxicating mix. Highly recommended.

This album reminds me of the past. Chameleon, a more than 15 minutes long jazzy bass theme (not on bass guitar but clavinet?) with keyboard/synthesizer and saxophone. This could drive one of my housemates crazy. Watermelon man. When I am listening now I still think Herby Hancock is funky, bur I am missing something (a voice, a surprise, lyrics), although the instruments do have a talk in Watermelon Man… Sly; It is jazz, it is a bit Santana in the percussion and freaky. Vein Melter is wonderfull on the keyboards, the baseline, the reverb, a really jazz funk dreamscape. Maybe the pieces are (too) long in these impatient times. I am now going to llisten too Hancocks earlier album that maybe was before he was more mainstream funky jazz. And via via I found the new album of Nubiyan Twist. Exactly the kind of funky jazz I need anno 2024!

Great musician, great album, but I’m not much a jazz fan