RhythmGJ
Here, But I'm Gone...
Yes, it is, RhythmGJ. Prince purportedly wanted to take a break from rock/R&B/pop during the late 80s and this, along with post-Revolution bandmates (e.g. Eric Leeds on sax), was his foray into what I would rate as a good fusion of jazz horn riffs and funk. The collective released albums 8, 16, and 24 under the moniker "Madhouse." If I remember correctly, singles "8," "10," and "16" were released to support the albums as the ensemble never toured to support the material. Prince's main focus during that period was supporting Sign 'O the Times and Lovesexy.
I remember spinning that "Madhouse 8" album on the air when it came out; you're right, if memory serves, there was some good instrumental/jazz-funk on it.
I remember thinking it was interesting to hear Prince's production approach sans vocals; the backbeat on those songs is BIG.
GJ