Light Of The World ‎– Check Us Out

Light Of The World – Check Us Out

Released in 1982 on EMI Records, Check Us Out is the third studio album from British jazz-funk pioneers Light Of The World. A fascinating document of the early-1980s Brit-funk movement, the album captures a group navigating a period of change while continuing to deliver the infectious grooves, sophisticated arrangements and dancefloor-focused musicianship that made them one of the UK's most influential funk outfits.

Originally emerging from London's vibrant jazz-funk scene in the late 1970s, Light Of The World helped establish a distinctly British interpretation of American funk, blending tight rhythm sections, soulful vocals, punchy brass arrangements, Latin percussion and jazz-influenced instrumentation. Their music became an important influence on the next generation of British dance and soul artists, with connections to musicians who would go on to form or work with groups including Beggar & Co and Incognito.

By the time of Check Us Out, the band's original membership had undergone considerable changes. The remaining core of Gee Bello, Nat Augustin and Paul 'Tubbs' Williams continued under the Light Of The World name, with drummer and producer Nigel Martinez directing the sessions and arrangements. The result is a polished but rhythmically adventurous collection that combines jazz-funk sophistication with accessible soul and boogie influences.

The album opens with 'Famous Faces', a lively, tightly arranged number featuring soulful vocals and an infectious rhythmic drive. 'I Can't Stop' and 'Don't Run' explore the band's more measured funk sound, built around carefully controlled grooves and intricate instrumental interplay. The title track, 'Check Us Out', is a standout example of the group's distinctive approach, combining sharp rhythmic accents, Latin percussion and energetic vocal arrangements.

' Tubbs In The Caribbean' provides a short instrumental interlude before the second side moves into 'Soho', a lively composition that reflects the band's connection to London's urban jazz-funk culture. 'No. 1 Girl' is particularly appealing for its relaxed groove, soulful lead vocal and subtle saxophone touches, while '(Everybody) Move' brings an infectious dancefloor energy through buoyant brass arrangements and tightly locked rhythms. The album closes with 'Easy Things To Say', rounding out a collection that balances sophisticated musicianship with an immediately accessible sense of groove.

One of the most interesting aspects of Check Us Out is its place within the wider history of British funk. Light Of The World helped lay the foundations for a homegrown jazz-funk and soul movement that would influence artists across the UK, from the emerging Brit-funk scene to later acid jazz and contemporary soul. The album also reflects the musical connections between Light Of The World, Beggar & Co and the wider network of London musicians who helped shape the sound of British dance music during this period.

An excellent album for fans of Brit-funk, jazz-funk, boogie, soulful disco and early-1980s British dance music. Check Us Out is particularly rewarding for collectors exploring the independent spirit and musical sophistication of the UK jazz-funk scene, offering a compelling snapshot of a group whose influence extended well beyond its original era.

Tracklist

Side A
A1. Famous Faces
A2. I Can't Stop
A3. Don't Run
A4. Check Us Out
A5. Tubbs In The Caribbean

Side B
B1. Soho
B2. No. 1 Girl
B3. (Everybody) Move
B4. Easy Things To Say