"Black Market" is the sixth studio album by the American jazz fusion band, Weather Report. Released in 1976, it continues the band's exploration of jazz fusion, blending together elements of jazz, rock, funk, and various world music styles. Notably, the album marks the debut of Jaco Pastorius, who would become recognized as one of the greatest bassists of all time. Pastorius plays on two tracks, while departing member Alphonso Johnson plays on the remaining five.
The album opens with the title track, "Black Market", featuring the band's seamless interaction and musical experimentation. The standout track is arguably "Cannon Ball", a tribute to the saxophonist Cannonball Adderley who had recently passed away. Adderley had worked with band members Joe Zawinul and Wayne Shorter in earlier projects.
Despite the changes in personnel and the experimental approach, "Black Market" was both a critical and commercial success. It further solidified Weather Report's status as a leading jazz fusion band of the era.
