Freedom Sound began a decade-long association with the label that was both prolific and tremendously successful. The blueprint of the band's enticing sound was already firmly in place, blending jazz aspirations with R&B roots for a potent dose of hard bop, soul jazz, gospel, and Texas Blues. The band's core members-drummer Nesbert "Stix" Hooper, pianist Joe Sample, trombonist Wayne Henderson, and tenor saxophonist Wilton Felder-are joined here by bassist Jimmy Bond and special guest Roy Gaines contributing guitar to two tracks. Highlights of the set include Felder's opening 6/8 blues "The Geek" and Sample's stately civil rights anthem "Freedom Sound," which gave the album its title.
Side A
1: The Geek
2: M.J.S. Funk
3: That's It
Side B
1: Freedom Sound
2: Theme From Exodus
3: Coon