10/01/2025
Mandrill was formed in 1968 in Brooklyn, New York, by the three Panama-born Wilson brothers: Carlos, Lou, and Ric. The group became known for their progressive funk style that blended diverse musical genres.
The Wilson brothers
The group's original core members were the musically-gifted Wilson brothers, who drew from their Panamanian roots and Brooklyn upbringing to create a unique sound:
Carlos Wilson: Trombone and vocals.
Lou Wilson: Trumpet and vocals.
Ric Wilson: Saxophone and vocals.
A fourth brother, Wilfredo "Wolf" Wilson, later joined the band on bass.
Musical style and influences
The Wilson brothers founded Mandrill to combine funk, soul, jazz, and Latin music, which evolved into what they called "World Music". Their eclectic sound, which also included elements of rock, R&B, and African music, made them one of the most progressive funk groups of the 1970s.
Naming the band
The Wilson brothers named their band after the mandrill, a species of African primate known for its colorful face and family-oriented social structure.
Early success
After forming, the band signed with Polydor Records and released their self-titled debut album in 1970. Their third album, Composite Truth (1973), was their most commercially successful and featured their signature track "Fencewalk".
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