Jungle Wonz ‎– The Jungle

This is one of the greatest house records ever made, make no mistake. The depth Marshall produced in this tune is unreal! One of my most played house tunes. The green label is the one to have.

How is it possible that this unbelievable CLASSIC of house from the original city, Chicago, has so few reviews? ONE, as my posting, a quarter century later?!? Maybe I am dating myself, but then I'm proud of that. Even if technology and production methods have progressed, few producers still have the knack to infuse such depth into their dance music as Marshall Jefferson. The Jungle is a clear testament to that, and is an essential release for every DJ who's interested in their history to own, or at the very least listen to.

Other tracks to check out by Marshall that are must-listens are:
"Time Marches On"
Absolutely sublime in its childlike melodies and lyrics ("Nothing stays the same, there's always change"). This actually conjures up feelings of infinite time/space for me. http://www.discogs.com/Jungle-Wonz-Time-Marches-On/master/5403

"Bird in a Guilded Cage"
Perhaps a lesser-known of his classics, this beautiful bittersweet track literally has put tears in my eyes. With its clever use of jungle "chatter" in the background, it projects you right into the tropical African rainforests. And you could hear the very beginnings of Drum-and-Bass / Tribal in the African drums in the break. http://www.discogs.com/Jungle-Wonz-Bird-In-A-Guilded-Cage/release/2347

Thank you, M.J., for teaching us how to make dance music with serious soul.

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I was fortunate to catch the final year and a half the Paradise Garage was open. 1986 and 1987. The early morning I made my way to 84 King Street and gained admittance through my buddy Dj Pernell who owned a membership card. You could "Feel" the music Larry was playing even outside while on line. The Garage had a long slightly upward ramp you had to walk up about 100 yards. Literally to get to the actual dance floor entrance. Lights pulsating on both sides. As you get closer and closer to the main room, you could feel the bass just pound through your body to your very soul. The first song I ever heard on the Paradise Garage sound system as I entered the room was "The Jungle" My mouth dropped and I stood there in awe at what I was hearing and witnessing. Dumb struck.

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