Incognito: Transatlantic RPM

Thirty years is rare for any musical family to endure, especially one with membership as fluid as the U.K.’s Incognito. Founding patriarch Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick has been the constant of the acid jazz-funk outfit as the musician, songwriter and producer of such hits as “Always There,” “Still a Friend of Mine” and “Deep Waters.” Neo-disco jams “Put a Little Lovin’ in Your Heart,” featuring Tony Momrelle, “Life Ain’t Nothing But a Good Thing,” with Vanessa Haynes, and “Let’s Fall in Love Again,” sporting a joyful Christian Ulrich of Tortured Soul, prove that Bluey’s ear for undeniable dance grooves and funky brass shows no signs of wear, particularly on Joy Ross’s wailing “1975.” A handful of greats contribute classic - though occasionally uninspired - vocals, including icons Chaka Khan, Leon Ware, Ursula Rucker, and prodigal daughter, Maysa. Only a few rote cuts and the absence of vocalist Chris Ballin prevent RPM from being the perfect reunion. (4 out of 5 stars)