Donald Byrds 1974 fusion masterpieceStepping Into Tomorrowwas a high-water mark of the legendary trumpeters vibrant latter Blue Note years. Byrd had begun recording for Blue Note in 1958, and over the course of his tenure evolved from a top-notch hard bop trumpeter into a pioneer of R&B/Funk fusion, leading the labels own creative direction along a similar path. Byrd began to introduce elements of fusion to his music with his 1969 albumFancy Freeand shadowed Miles Davis early-1970s moves with experimental sessions likeElectric ByrdandEthiopian Knights. When Byrd hooked up with visionary producerLarry Mizellfor his landmark 1972 albumBlack Byrda new sound coalesced: funky and sultry, sophisticated yet accessible, with intricate arrangements that allowed Byrds trumpet to soar over top. A string of commercial successes followed, the third of which wasStepping Into Tomorrowfeaturing the standout title track and Think Twice, which would become touchstones for future hip-hop generations including artists like J Dilla, Madlib, and A Tribe Called Quest. The album featured contributions from saxophonistGary Bartz, multi-instrumentalist/vocalistFonce Mizell, bassistChuck Rainey, drummerHarvey Mason& others.

This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Edition is stereo, all-analog, mastered byKevin Grayfrom the original master tapes, and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.

Tracklist:
A1 Stepping Into Tomorrow
A2 Design A Nation
A3 We’re Together
A4 Think Twice
B1 Makin’ It
B2 Rock And Roll Again
B3 You Are The World
B4 I Love The Girl