Even though I recognize that there is a higher intelectual -spirithual approach to jazz (Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Bill Frisell, Keith Jarret...) ...

...I also recognize that a lighter and easier-going approach to jazz could also have a high value in therms of musical richness and listening enjoyment.

THE CRUSADERS is a clear example of that. They played light, groovy and juicy music. Call it jazz, r&b, funk, fusion...it was just music for your soul and feet.

They composed some of the most beautiful melodies ever written plus assamble some of the funkiest nastiest and grooviest rhytmic moments on the history of afroamerican music.

Most of great hip hop gurus of the 90's sampled them at least once (DJ Premier, the Beastie Boys among others).

I would like the share thoughts and memories on this VERY UNDERRATED band that has gave me some of the nicest moments.

I don't think they ever got the respect and recognition they deserved. They were totally overlooked and I advice anybody who's serious into music listening and music making mostly, to listen to them and their beautiful funky music.

Must have's:

1. Free as the wind
2. Southern comfort
3. Chain reaction

I have scratch, and it is a really good cd. It is quite relaxing and funky.

Maybe part of the problem was that their sound (as well as their name) changed so much over the course of their existence. In the 60's and 70's, when they were at their peak, they got a fair amount of attention. Joe Sample, of course, went on to a very successful solo career.

I prefer their earlier music, such as Live at the Lighthouse '66, to the more funky, fusion, soul jazz sound you seem to prefer from the later releases you mention. It's a matter of personal taste, but I think it may be one of the reasons they are "underrated". They had a bit of an identity crisis that confused their listeners.

I agree with you, though. They were a very good group and deserve more attention than they get.

I've never seen them as underrated, but well. I come from a group of friends, and we all love them so...I really love their music, because I'm really found of funk too. and not as jazzfan, I like their later stuff the best.

Well, it's personal taste as you say it.