Continuing Mr. Bongo's series looking at the multitude of Sonny Lester's record label releases, 1977's "Funk Reaction" finds Hammond B3 organ virtuoso Lonnie Smith at his most dancefloor-friendly. This album is dripping with groove and momentum and moves between jazz funk, cosmic disco sheen, beat-heavy slow jams and conscious psychedelic soul. After playing with George Benson and Lou Donaldson in the 60s and releasing a series of albums on Columbia and Blue Note, Smith moves towards late 70s disco-funk with "Funk Reaction". Originally released on Sonny Lester's Groove Merchant Records successor, the "Lester Radio Corporation", the album feels more like a collaborative, band-oriented project than a solo artist outing. Featuring some of the best session players of the time, including Steve Gadd on drums, guitarist Lance Quinn and bassist Bob Babbitt, the album is skillfully put together by songwriter, arranger and conductor Brad Baker. Overall, the album is an excellent example of Lonnie Smith's ability to fuse jazz with elements of funk, soul, disco and beyond, experimenting with ideas and broadening both his audience and appeal in the process. Fans of The Blackbyrds, CTI/Kudu and George Benson from the 70s will be delighted!