Lafayette Afro-rock Band - Each Man Makes His Destiny

Strut reintroduces a classic from the Topomic catalogue, Ice’s ‘Each Man Makes His Destiny’ - the predecessor to Lafayette Afro Rock Band: Recorded before they adopted the Lafayette Afro Rock Band name, this album marks the origins of their iconic afro- funk sound. Check out tracks like 'Put An X On The Spot (In The Sky)' or 'Dgunji' !
 ' 
 

After relocating from the United States to Paris, Ice began performing regularly in the city’s Barbès district, a vibrant area with a large North African immigrant community. The band’s heavy Afro-funk sound caught the attention ofproducer Pierre Jaubert, leading them to become the resident session musicians at his independent Parisound
studio.

Immersed in the local influences, Ice began integrating African-inspired chants, textures, and rhythms into their distinct funk style. In 1973, the group recorded their debut album, ‘Each Man Makes His Destiny’, a psychedelic funk exploration that hinted at the evolving sound that would later define them as the Lafayette Afro-Rock Band and, eventually, Ice once more.

Produced by Jaubert, the album brings some powerful social commentary on claustrophobic tracks like ‘Too LittleRoom’ and ‘Suicide’, under-pinned by a determination to succeed despite the adversity.