' The album The 2nd Crusade by The Crusaders was released in 1973. The album represents a fusion of jazz, funk, and soul, showcasing the band's signature sound and remarkable musicianship. This record followed their transition from the earlier moniker “The Jazz Crusaders” to simply “The Crusaders,” marking a broader and more eclectic approach to their music. The album features prominent performances by Joe Sample (keyboards), Wilton Felder (saxophone and bass), Stix Hooper (drums), and Wayne Henderson (trombone), alongside other session musicians. Tracks like “A Message from the Inner City” and “Journey from Within” are standout pieces, praised for their emotive depth and dynamic instrumentation. The album is produced by Stewart Levine, a well-known producer in the jazz and R&B scenes. Levine's expertise in creating smooth, polished productions complemented the band's raw, dynamic energy, resulting in the fusion of jazz, funk, and soul that defines the album.