RAMP
From The Art and Popular Culture Encyclopedia
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RAMP was a soul/jazz group from Cincinnati, U.S.A. RAMP was mistakenly been said to stand for 'Roy Ayers Music Production', but Ayers was not a member, though he did write and produce songs on their debut album. Bandleader and drummer John Manuel said: "The name actually refers to taking you on a journey, elevation, as in an on or up ramp, an access to another place as in highway ramps. It, contrary to some belief, does not mean Roy Ayers Music Production, though that fits the acronym."
The group released one album, Come Into Knowledge in 1977, and is now considered a classic among rare groove collectors, artists (such as PM Dawn and A Tribe Called Quest who have used RAMP samples in their tracks) and Roy Ayers fans. Featuring the female vocals of Sharon Matthews and Sibel Thrasher, the album was recorded in New York and California. The group were a vehicle for the songwriting talents of Roy Ayers and Edwin Birdsong. Released in 1977, the set featured a version of Roy Ayers' 'Everybody Loves The Sunshine' along with the 'rare groove' track 'Daylight'.
The group split up shortly afterwards, but reformed in 2006 for new tours and recordings. RAMP performed June 30, 2007, with Washington, DC, jazz pianist Will Rast at Central Park SummerStage in New York City.
Members
- John Manuel (Drums and Percussion)
- Sharon Matthews (Lead Vocals)
- Sibel Thrasher (Lead Vocals)
- Nate White (Bass)
- Landy Shores (Guitar)
Discography
- Come Into Knowledge (ABC Blue Thumb 1977)
