Some thoughts about electric instruments: one may prefer the sound of acoustic instruments, but players choose to use electric or acoustic piano and bass not because one kind is intrinsically superior to the other. They are different animals altogether with not only different sounds but different response and feel which place different demands on the player; which, in turn, opens different avenues of expression. The player makes a judgment call as to which is more appropriate for the style of music. It's not a coincidence that Herbie Hancock. Chick Corea, Deodato and many others chose the Fender Rhodes piano. That sound in a way defined the 70's and I disagree that the music would be better served with an acoustic piano. It's almost like saying "I prefer the sound of the bass clarinet to that of the tenor saxophone, why didn't Coltrane use the bass clarinet instead?" ; after all, they are both single reed woodwinds in Bb and have the same range.
O-10 mentioned Weather Report one of the greatest bands from this period. Joe Zawinul was a founder and key member, and later formed his "Syndicate". Check out the electric bass sound on this clip; can't do this on the acoustic bass. The rhythm section is on fire.
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q6SbaYPU2LA
O-10 mentioned Weather Report one of the greatest bands from this period. Joe Zawinul was a founder and key member, and later formed his "Syndicate". Check out the electric bass sound on this clip; can't do this on the acoustic bass. The rhythm section is on fire.
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q6SbaYPU2LA