Mystic Merlin
Mystic Merlin was an American soul-funk band from New York City, active primarily in the early 1980s. They gained attention for blending funky grooves with theatrical live shows featuring magic tricks.
Formed as Mystic Merlin's Magic Band, the group started as a novelty act incorporating illusions into performances, led by bassist and magician Clyde Bullard. They evolved into a serious soul-funk outfit, shortening their name before signing with Capitol Records in 1980, just as internal tensions nearly caused a split.
Key lineup included: Clyde Bullard (bass, founding member and creative force); Barry Roark Strutt (saxophone, keyboards); Leslie Dorsey (keyboards, vocals); Jerry Anderson (guitar, vocals; died 2020); Keith Gonzales (vocals, harmonica); Sly Randolph (drums, percussion, vocals). Betty Brown (vocals).
They released three albums on Capitol from 1980-1982:- Mystic Merlin (1980), with UK Top 20 single "Just Can't Give You Up" produced by Charles Kipps; Sixty Thrills a Minute (1981), featuring guests like Paulinho Da Costa and Cheryl Lynn; Full Moon (1982), adding pre-solo fame Freddie Jackson on vocals, including track "Mr. Magician."
The band built a loyal following through live energy but disbanded after their Capitol run, with 2012 remasters reviving interest.
Full Moon
The album is most notable for introducing Freddie Jackson as lead vocalist before he launched his multi-platinum solo career. Reviewers often point to this record as a clear showcase of the vocal prowess that would later define his "Quiet Storm" success.
The album features a "glittery" production style defined by clean rhythm guitars, post-disco rhythms, and processed Fender Rhodes piano. Critics describe it as a mix of high-energy funk steppers and mid-tempo numbers with a "sassy groove".
While it was a "poor seller" upon its initial release and failed to produce major hits, it has gained high praise through reissues. Modern reviews frequently rate it between 4.4 and 5 stars on collector platforms like Discogs.
Standout Tracks:0
"Mr. Magician": A cult favorite and the album's opener, described as a funky, slap-bass-driven dancer with an atmospheric, catchy hook.
"Full Moon": The title track is praised for its "freaky keyboards" and "sumptuous" production.
"Your Love": A standout mid-tempo ballad that serves as a precursor to Freddie Jackson’s later R&B hits.
"Perfect" & "Rock The World": Highly regarded mid-tempo R&B jams that critics argue should have been larger commercial successes.
Despite lack of commercial success upon release, it is now considered a sought-after, essential, and "spellbinding" funk album. For those looking to purchase, the album was notably remastered and reissued by Big Break Records (BBR) in 2012, which includes expanded liner notes and bonus tracks. You can find various pressings and digital versions through platforms like Amazon and Discogs.