Various Artists: Irma’s Acid Jazz on The Rocks

Acid jazz collections have always been a spotty affair-just about anything is likely to turn up on them, first of all, from fusion lite to organ-ized funk to breakbeat alchemy. And what turns up is likely to be of widely varying quality. Irma’s Acid Jazz on the Rocks (Irma America, 42847812; 69:44) is no exception, parading a nondescript collection of tracks culled from the Italian label. Some cuts distinguish themselves, like the Bossanostra’s version of Gil Scott Heron’s “Home is Where the Hatred Is” (featuring vocals from Vickie Anderson), DJ Rodriguez’ slyly funky “4 Steps” and smoothed out hip-hopper “Nublado Mezclado,” by Jerome Van Rossum.

Originally Published December 1, 1997