The Nite-Liters – Instrumental Directions (1972)

New Birth (also known as The New Birth) is an American funk and R&B group. It was originally conceived in Detroit, Michigan by former Motown songwriter/producer, Vernon Bullock and co-founded in Louisville, Kentucky. The history of the group began with the instrumental outfit, The Nite-Liters, which was originally formed in 1963.

In its heyday, besides Churchill on tenor sax and vibes, the band featured Charlie Hearndon on guitar, James Baker on keyboards, Robin Russell on drums, Robert “Lurch” Jackson on trumpet, Austin Lander on baritone sax, Leroy Taylor on bass, and, later, Carl McDaniel on guitar.
Earlier members included Johnny Graham, later of Earth, Wind & Fire and Jerry Bell also a member at one time. Some sources identify The Nite-liters as the band that played as “The Crawlers” with Chicago artist Alvin Cash on his R&B #1 1964 hit, “Twine Time.”
Instrumental Directions is the third album by the Louisville, Kentucky group The Nite-Liters, the instrumental ensemble offshoot of New Birth. Released in 1972 on RCA Records. Produced by mentor Harvey Fuqua.

1. “Theme from Shaft”  (4:16)
2. “Brand X”  (4:43)
3. “Them (Changes)”  (4:45)
4. “Respect To The Other Man”  (5:00)
5. “Cherish Every Precious Moment”  (3:00)
6. “Afro-Strut”  (2:50)
7. Medley: “McArthur Park, What’s Going On, Fugua’s Theme”  (4:55)
8. “I’ve Got Dreams To Remember”  (3:15)
9. “Wichita Lineman”  (5:05)
10. “Bakers Instant”  (3:39)

Credits

• Arranged By, Conductor – Harvey Fuqua, The Nite-Liters
• Artwork By – Acy Lehman
• Engineer – Jim Crotty
• Photography – David Hecht

Notes

Recorded at RCA’s Studio C, New York City.
Released:  1972
Genre: Funk / Soul
Style: Funk
Length: 37:33
© 1972

Label - RCA Victor Records