Linx
Linx, known for their Brit funk hit "Intuition," formed the core of what users often reference as a quintessential Brit funk band. Their debut album Intuition (1981) captured the vibrant UK funk scene. The group disbanded after three albums but left a lasting impact.
David Grant (vocals) and Peter "Sketch" Martin (bass) met in a London hi-fi shop and formed Linx amid the late 1970s Brit funk wave. They expanded to include guitarist Canute Edwards, keyboardist Bob Carter, and drummer Andy Duncan. Early demos led to their breakthrough single "You're Lying" in 1980, sold via a specialist funk shop.
Key Members:- David Grant: Lead vocalist, producer, and songwriter; later pursued solo success and became a prominent vocal coach with BBC Radio London involvement; Peter "Sketch" Martin: Bassist and producer; transitioned to avant-funk group 23 Skidoo post-Linx; Bob Carter: Keyboards and production; Canute Edwards: Guitar; Andy Duncan: Drums.
Linx released three albums on Chrysalis Records from 1981-1983, earning Brit Awards Best Newcomer nomination in 1982. Their signature track "Intuition" hit UK No. 7, blending Caribbean-infused funk grooves. Other singles like "You're Lying" and "Together We Can Shine" defined their sunny, danceable sound.
As Brit funk pioneers, Linx rode the R&B boom, influencing the UK's multicultural music scene alongside acts like Imagination. Post-breakup, members like Grant achieved US songwriting credits for artists such as Cheryl Lynn. Their work remains a staple in funk compilations and club nostalgia.
Intuition
Handclaps – Mikkie Harvey, Simon Hanhart
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
5:27
A2 I Won't Forget
Backing Vocals – Maurice Michael
Written-By – C. Edwards, D. Grant, P. Martin
4:17
A3 Intuition
Soloist, Saxophone – Chris Hunter
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
4:01
A4 There's Love
Bass [All Basses] – Sketch
Vocals – Dave
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
3:55
A5 Rise And Shine
Handclaps, Backing Vocals – The Intercacaphonous Corridor Choir
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
3:44
B1 Throw Away The Key
Backing Vocals – Chris Porter, Dave, Simon Hanhart
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
5:13
B2 Together We Can Shine
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
3:59
B3 Count On Me
Horns – The Gosport Horns
Saxophone – Andy Hamilton
Soloist, Saxophone – Chris Hunter
Trombone – Spike Edney
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
3:35
B4 You're Lying
Handclaps, Backing Vocals – Chris Porter
Written-By – B. Salvary, D. Grant, P. Martin
4:45
B5 Don't Get In My Way
Soloist, Saxophone – Chris Hunter
Trombone – Spike Edney
Written-By – D. Grant, P. Martin
5:17
Label: Chrysalis – CHR 1332
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1981
Genre: R&B Soul, Funk
Style: Eighties Soul, Disco
Linx's 1981 album Intuition was a significant Brit-funk release, praised for blending funk with pop, jazz, and disco, creating a uniquely British sound, though some found it uneven; highlights included the hit title track and songs like "Wonder What You're Doing Now," showing their versatile, sometimes Police-like, approach to catchy, intelligent dance-pop that helped define early 80s UK black music.
A pivotal Brit-funk album, moving beyond pure funk to incorporate pop, jazz, disco, and even calypso. Described as sharp, intelligent, and lively, with a strong British flavour distinct from American jazz-funk.
Often compared to contemporary acts like Level 42 and Heaven 17, and noted for its varied influences, from Kool & The Gang to The Police.
The title track "Intuition" was a major hit and standout, alongside tracks like the funky "Rise and Shine" and the ballad "There's Love".
Critical Reception: Generally positive, highlighting its pop sensibilities and contribution to UK inner-city music, though some reviewers felt it could have been more consistent.
Intuition is remembered as a successful early 80s British pop-funk record, showcasing Linx's ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly tunes with depth, making it a landmark in the development of Brit-funk.