New releases last two weeks: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Nu-tone introduces the debut single from Lulada Club here - a superb New York City based all-women salsa orchestra headed up by band co-leader Andrea Chavarro. After two years of live performances, they're finally sharing their music for everyone to dance to and dance you will to these most intoxicating mixes of funk, cumbria, salsa and more. It was recorded live and all-analog at NY Hed Studio by producer Rocio Verta-Wray, and the single comes on random-colour vinyl. Lulada Club emerged in 2022 to fill the gap for women ensembles in NYC's live music scene and co-leader Katherine Ocampo has said their aim is to "provide access to live music, culture, community, and representation for women in music festivals and other spaces."

Review: Populous's Moonbaton Vol. 1 marks a strong return to Wonderwheel Recordings, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the darker realms of instrumental reggaeton and moombahton. With tracks like 'Flauta Magica, which intricately weaves brooding synths and dembow beats with ethereal flute melodies and 'Sapo,' a foreboding journey layered with monstrous basslines and whimsical melodies, Populous demonstrates his mastery in crafting atmospheric soundscapes. Hailing from Southern Italy, Populous's global approach to music-making shines through, reflecting his diverse influences and musicological background. With previous releases like Night Safari and Azulejos, Populous has established himself as a versatile artist, while also making waves in the fashion world as a sound designer for renowned brands. Moonbaton Vol. 1 sets the stage for an eagerly anticipated series, promising an enchanting fusion of cosmic inspiration and rhythmic exploration.

Review: Jazz Is Dead continues its tradition of honouring jazz legends while pushing boundaries with Remixes JID020. Featuring dynamic remixes from contemporary artists, the album breathes new life into classics from the series. Mophono's reinvention of Tony Allen's 'Don't Believe the Dancers' pays homage to Afrobeat traditions, while Melanie Charles adds a refreshing ode to Blackness in her remix of Jean Carne's 'Black Rainbows.' Shabaka Hutchins' take on Henry Franklin's 'African Sun' merges West African rhythms with jazz modalities, creating a mesmerizing musical meditation. Throughout JID020, the spirit of collaboration shines, with artists staying true to their unique sounds while preserving the essence of the original recordings. This album not only adds depth to the Jazz Is Dead catalogue but also highlights the timeless appeal of jazz fusion and the power of cross-generational collaboration in keeping the genre alive and vibrant.