Feel No Fret

Released in 1979, Feel No Fret is the sixth studio album by the Average White Band and serves as a bridge between their raw mid-70s funk and the more polished, radio-friendly R&B of the early 80s. Recorded at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, the album benefits from a crisp, vibrant production that highlights the band's legendary tightness. While many of their peers were fully succumbing to disco tropes, AWB maintained their integrity by keeping the bass and drums at the forefront of the mix. The album features a mix of originals and well-chosen covers, including a notable rework of Burt Bacharach's 'Walk On By'. Critically, it is often cited as one of their most consistent late-career efforts, showcasing the dual-vocal attack of Alan Gorrie and Hamish Stuart. It remains a staple for DJs and hip-hop producers looking for clean, syncopated breaks and sophisticated soul textures.