Gap Mangione – Diana In The Autumn Wind is one of the most sought-after jazz-funk albums of all time, finally receiving its first ever official vinyl reissue via Be With Records. Originally released in 1968 and long considered a true “holy grail” for collectors, this legendary album blends jazz, funk, library music, breaks and orchestral arrangements into a rich, cinematic listening experience. For decades, original pressings have commanded premium prices, making this long-awaited reissue an essential moment for crate diggers, DJs and serious vinyl collectors alike. Famed for its deep influence on hip-hop production, Diana In The Autumn Wind has been sampled by icons including J Dilla, Madlib, A Tribe Called Quest, Ghostface Killah, Kendrick Lamar and Talib Kweli. The title track alone helped shape some of the most beloved beats in underground and golden-era hip-hop, but this album is far more than a sample source — it stands as a complete and compelling work in its own right. Featuring a stellar lineup including bassist Tony Levin and legendary drummer Steve Gadd early in their careers, the album delivers a masterclass in groove, arrangement and musical interplay. Warm electric piano, expressive organ work, dynamic horn sections and intricate rhythm patterns combine to create a sound that is both sophisticated and deeply soulful. Highlights include the swaggering opener “Boy With Toys”, the hauntingly beautiful “Diana In The Autumn Wind”, the groove-heavy “Long Hair Soulful”, and the expansive, emotionally rich “Pond With Swans”. Across both sides, the record moves effortlessly between jazz improvisation, cinematic scoring, funk breaks and lush orchestration.
