“Far Out” is one of those rare singles that successfully combines disco with jazz and funk, an additional feature being a tight horn section. The lyrics echo the free-thinking vibe of the mid-70s: “but whatever you can do you can do a little better/ if you only let your mind go far out.” The vocals sound like they were recorded in an echo chamber, adding to the hallucinatory feeling of the song. Most of the song contains a jam session, and the percussion and horns defy you to sit still. The keyboard solos emphasize the band's jazz influences.

After recording nine albums, the group broke up in 1986 with the Reid brothers as well as guitarist/vocalist William Anderson left to pursue other interests. According to the Crown Heights Affair page at Soulwalking, Raymond Reid and Anderson reteamed to produce various artists, most notably France Joli and Unlimited Touch. Sadly, the group never reunited, particularly after the death of Bertram Charles Reid in 2004.

The Crown Heights Affair's tenure may have been short, but their funky dance singles deserve more attention. “Far Out” may be difficult to find in the U.S., but it truly exemplifies the phrase “hidden treasure.” Let your mind go far out, indeed.

Visit youtube to listen to the track. For more information on the Crown Heights affair, visit the following sites:  Wikipedia, Discogs listing, and thier MySpace Tribute Page.