Level 42 is an English band formed in 1979, known for combining jazz‑funk musicianship with 1980s pop sensibilities. Key figures include Mark King (bass, vocals) and Mike Lindup (keyboards, vocals).

Founding lineup included Mark King, Mike Lindup, Phil Gould and Boon (Rowland) Gould. Wally Badarou was a frequent collaborator/producer. The band shifted from fusion/jazz‑funk toward a more pop-oriented sound in the mid-1980s; Mark King is widely noted for his slap‑style bass technique.

DeBaser's reviews highlight Level 42's strong musicianship, Mark King's distinctive bass work and the band's move from jazz‑funk toward pop in the mid‑80s. Critics praise early funk/fusion albums and note later stylistic compromises. Lineup changes and collaborations (notably with Wally Badarou) are recurring themes.

For:Fans of 1980s jazz-funk/pop, bass players, readers interested in band history and album analysis

 “World Machine”, the fifth studio effort by Level 42, set the stage for the rift between the Gould brothers, Phil in particular, and Mark King (charismatic leader, as well as a top-notch bassist).

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 "World machine" is an extremely well-crafted work, complete in form and harmonic.

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 Mark's extreme musicality led him to start as a drummer, acquiring perfect timing and accent control during his teenage years… only to transfer it all to the bass, the new instrument chosen (at nineteen) to express himself, adding singing as well shortly after, just because.

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 "Guaranteed" is a mature album that many fans bounced off, dodged, perhaps because it was a bit too full of compromises.

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