Review: At the start of the COVID-19 shutdown, Rob Hart and David A. Tobin were writing music for an artist's project. When the artist left, they found themselves reflecting not on lost work but on their shared love for music. Their conversation turned to the 90s-a time when hip-hop fused with funk and soul, promoting fun, parties and unity. Inspired by this, Rob created a sound palette echoing the hits of the early 80s and 90s, while David envisioned a local club vibe. In one day, they crafted this song with infectious hooks, nostalgic beats and joyful energy. Rob's production polished the track into a "hands-in-the-air" anthem-a tribute to good times and a beacon of positivity in dark times.
Review: Americans Hank Jacobs and Don Malone cooked up a bona fide political soul anthem when they crafted 'The World Needs Changin' back in 1970. It is now hard to find so naturally these days it fetches a very handsome fee on second hand markets so has rightly been reissued here by BGP. The a-side is a tune that cuts deep, with pained vocals over a simple but devastating soul rhythm. On the flip is another gem in the form of 'Getting On Down' making this a crucial cut.
Review: Jstar and Dubmatix's Scenario is an infectious mash-up of A Tribe Called Quest's 1992 classic, seamlessly blending hip-hop with dub and reggae influences. The remix revitalises the iconic track, infusing it with a modern, bass-heavy groove while retaining its original energy and lyrical parts. The instrumental version stands out on its own, showcasing the intricate production work and the deep, resonant basslines characteristic of Dubmatix. This remix respects the legacy of the original track while introducing it to a new generation.
Review: Reggae Dynamite Vol.6 explodes onto the scene with four irresistible tracks that capture the essence of early reggae. Max Iss & The Minions kick things off with the infectious title track, setting the tone for an EP filled with soulful rhythms and vibrant melodies. Donnoya Drake delivers a stellar rendition of the funk-soul classic 'Mr Big Stuff,' while reggae legend Dave Barker lends his smooth vocals to 'Gimme Little Sign,' adding his own twist to the soul nugget. The instrumental track, 'Gimme Little Version,' by Woodfield Rd Allstars, rounds out the EP with its lively organ-led groove. Produced by Neil Anderson, each song is expertly crafted, blending elements of reggae, funk, and soul to create an electrifying listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned reggae enthusiast or new to the genre, Reggae Dynamite Vol.6 is guaranteed to get you moving and grooving from start to finish.
Review: Mr Doris steps up with D-Funk Heat, a release that comfortably balances retro flair with modern groove. The production is sharp, with funky basslines that immediately grab attention, while the crisp drums and infectious synth lines keep everything fresh. Doris's ability to blend dancefloor-ready energy with nuanced musicality shines through, making this a record that's both playful and rich in its sonic textures. There's a sense of ease throughout, a laid-back confidence that invites listeners to move while staying fully immersed in the groove. It's a nod to the past with eyes firmly on the future.
Review: Nick and Astro, known collectively as Potatohead People, join forces once again on a tantalising teaser 7" from their upcoming album, Eat Your Heart Out'. Featured on 'Paradise' is the highly hyped Canadian artist Diamond Cafe, whose velvety vocals grace this early 80s-inspired blend of digital sex funk that will remind you of Sade, El Debarge, and Prefab Sprout. Describing his music as "bathing in a cloud of honey on a very foggy night," Diamond Cafe's performance is nothing short of magic here. On the flipside, Nick Wisdom puts his spin on the track, infusing it with dub elements and enhancing the bassline.
Review: Rhythm Rhyme Revolution, alongside DJ Tabu, delivers a fantastic EP with Summertime / Sunshine Girl. 'Summertime (nuacidfunk)' gradually escalates into a disco crescendo, enriched by Dan Lipman's jazz flute/sax and Gareth Tasker's steaming sitar riff. On the flipside, 'Sunshine Girl' boasts a slinky Afro percussive groove, with DJ Tabu's vocals celebrating love in the sunshine, complemented by Barrie Sharpe's infectious hooks. The ensemble work, featuring Kenny Wellington's jazzy trumpet and vibrant guitar, creates a dynamic sonic landscape. The EP also includes the original version of 'Summertime,' reminiscent of Motown classics. Sharpe's masterful tease and impeccable mood-building make this record a touch of class, leaving listeners thoroughly enchanted.
Review: Fresh off the back of X-Ray Ted's debut album Moving On comes this instrumental/scratch tool version of 'Get Loose', one of the record's best-loved non single tracks. Prior to the full album's making and eventual completion, The Bristol-based DJ and producer had spent years honing his craft and refining his signature sound, which drew heavily on soul, funk, hip-hop and breaks; all of which were styles heavily indebted to the street battle breaks culture found in 90s New York and other major cities. 'Get Loose', the seventh track on the record, features British rappers Dr. Syntax and Elemental and is a fiery exploration of what it means to loosen oneself; the track features here in full original form, alongside its locked groove and acapella versions, the former of which samples an oldskool comedy set characteristic of the kinds of sources battle DJs would sift theirs from.
Review: In celebration of 50 years in the performing arts, Idris Ackamoor presents Artistic Being for Record Store Day 2025-a powerful blend of jazz, spoken word and activism. Featuring the voices of acclaimed actor Danny Glover and stage legend Rhodessa Jones, this record captures highlights from the Underground Jazz Cabaret, which was performed during Black History Month 2024 at The Lab in San Francisco. Co-produced by Ackamoor's Cultural Odyssey, the release fuses poetic storytelling with evocative musical textures while reflecting on social justice, identity and resilience. Artistic Being is a profound statement from a visionary artist.
Review: The Tele Music catalogue follows a long tradition of library music mores; stock patterned album art and themed series included. Originally from 1973, Rhythmiques functions as one of the label's most iconic releases. Written entirely in collaboration between French composer and percussionist Pierre Dahan and synthesist Mat Camison, it features tense funk, blunted jazz and heavy breaks all the way. It is considered the rightful sequel to Continental Pop Sound, and despite the origin as library music intended for TV and film, has endured as a vital album for producers and DJs.
Review: A new spate of Tele Music library classics reissues from the 70s houses this one from 1976. Once more, legendary composer and drummer Pierre Alain Dahan hears his timely work reissued - this time in collaboration with his eternal guitar colleague Slim Pezin, a many-timed collaborator with Dahan. Contrasting to Dahan's many more experimental works, such as the prototypical 'Rhythmiques' album (which is far more out-there, almost primordial-sounding) 'Neo Rhythmiques' is an absolute killer of scorching, uptempo jazzy soul-funk, demonstrating what humanity as whole has achieved since, by harnessing said rhythmic primordium for its own funky ends.
Review: The reissue of James Dallas' 'Life Forms' by Tidal Waves Music brings back to life a hidden gem in the realm of jazz, funk and soul. Originally released in 1982 and completely self-funded with the help and encouragement of his peers and family, the album captures Dallas' innovative ability to sculpt sonic landscapes that were way ahead of his time and still remain fresh now. Each track on the long player is a mesmerising blend of ethereal textures with rhythmic pulses that result in immersive sounds and come with assistance from Earl Thompson on percussion, Myron McClain and Noland Clark on drums, Rick Lacey and Robert Walls Jr. on guitar, Jake Simmons and Kevin Whitehead on bass.
I'm Just Tryna Survive (In The Big City) (feat Q-Tip - bonus track) (4:40)
Kaint Let 'Em Change Me (bonus track) (3:56)
The Acceptance (bonus track) (9:20)
Review: Dam-Funk recently took to Twitter to bemoan the disparity between the positive feedback he gets from listeners, and the largely disappointing reviews from music critics. It's certainly odd that critics have been sniffy about Invite The Light, his fourth solo full-length for Stones Throw, because it's arguably his most varied, accessible and attractive album to date. Packed full of proper songs, cheeky dancefloor workouts, and high profile collaborations - pals Q-Tip, Snoop Dogg, Computer Jay, Jody Whatley and Nite Jewel all lend a hand - it's an album that still sounds hugely futuristic, despite Dam-Funk's reliance on vintage synthesizers, drum machines, and '80s soul, funk and boogie influences.
Take Three - "Tonite's The Night (All Right)" (7:22)
Brandon - "Suzy Hijack" (6:37)
Henning - "Arrival/Departure" (4:22)
Dam Funk - "Believer" (7:51)
Moon Moon B - "Oof"
Nicci Gable - "Close To Who?"
Randell & Schippers - "Love Jam"
Verticle Lines - "Theme From Beach Boy"
Brandon - "Suzy Hijack"
Take Three - "Tonite’s The Night (All Right)"
Index - "Starlight"
Uncle Jams Army - "Dial-A-Freak"
Gemini - "Log In"
Nexus - "Stand Up" (instrumental)
Reggie B - "Poison Candy"
L33 - "Keepin It Tight"
Gaussian Curve - "Broken Clouds"
Tony Palkovic - "True To Yourself"
Henning - "Arrival/Departure"
Nite-Funk - "Can U Read Me?"
Dam Funk - "Believer"
True Design - "I Wanna Break"
Crystal Winds - "Funk Ain’t Easy"
Review: Dam Funk has been foundational in crystallising Stones Throw's undisputed leadership in the nu-school funk and boogie scene, and he's up there with the great J Dilla in our books. Naturally, he's been asked to mix up the latest series of DJ Kicks and, ladies and gentlemen, it's a real masterclass - one of those comps you can safely leave on and let it do its thing on you. The mood is personified by a fine blend of electronics and tougher, funkier rhythms by artists such as Index, Moon B, and Dam himself. There are also a few rare cuts by Chicago house legend Gemini that fit in perfectly, and a whole heap of wavy, Cali-inspired electronic funk. Badass.
Review: The debut album from Bahraini-born, British-based musical duo Dar Disku is a celebration of their Arabic heritage and multicultural influences that melds golden age West Asian and North African sounds with a contemporary dancefloor focus. The eight-track record hears the duo traverse their West Asian and North African origins and bring them back to their current place of residence, crossing from disco to Rai, from piano house to Turkish psychedelia, and all manner of other cross-Med import-exports. From the degage Turkish psych prog-house builder 'Sabir' with Billur Battal, to the penultimate piano-breaks rattler 'Galbi', this is a chilled and wavering dance release primed for bridging international gaps.
Review: If you haven't got Ubiquity's 2006 Darondo collection yet, now is most crucially the time. Shucks, if you have got it, you might want this for the collection anyway. Criminally overlooked by funk tourists, the Bay Area legend was originally the soul preserve for serious collectors until Gilles Peterson, Jack Penate and even Breaking Bad brought him to our attention a few years before his death. With a stark vocal range that reaches falsettos Jack Splash could only dream of and a lyrical dexterity that sits solemnly between raw emotion and touching poetry, each track shows how helped shape the blueprint that the likes of Child Of Luv, Plantlife, Amp Fiddler and many others developed years later. Essential.
Review: The folks at Burning Sol sure have been busy with a clutch of great new music all seemingly dropping from their Swiss base this month. This is a rare album release limited to just 150 copies from Daschenka Project. It's a mix of golden era vocal sounds and feel good grooves with great musicianship making each one special. Some of them, such as the jazzed up 'Craving For Love', are more lively and drum lead grooves for full dance floor action while others are late night comforters like the intimate vocals and guitar riffs of 'Don't You' which is a cover of a well-known classic.
Review: Betty Davis may have had had an unjustly short run in the public eye when she recorded her seminal 70s funk albums, but she left a lasting impact. As a potent creative force she wrote, recorded and produced her music with the backing of her own band Funk House, but the machinations of the industry hampered her progress until she retreated from view after this record from 1979. Light In The Attic have gone some way to righting the injustice by giving her stellar albums the reissue treatment they deserve, and on Crashin From Passion you can hear Davis spread her wings stylistically without dulling the impact of her hard-bitten soul. This edition comes pressed up on clear blue wax - an essential gem for anyone who takes the evolution of funk seriously.
Review: Brazilian singer Maria de Fatima's only solo album Baha con H was recorded in Uruguay in 1981 when the singer had settled with her then husband and synthesizer wizard Hugo Fattoruso. He was on production duties and the record mixes up classic covers of Brazilian sounds with plenty of original work and blended elements of Candombe, which were a result of the a-list of Uruguayan musicians who played on the recording. This is a first ever reissue of the album and it has been sourced from the original tapes. Liner notes are included as is a 12-page booklet with photos from Maria's own private archive.
Review: Mr Bongo present a staunch retro vision of Cuban-born violinist Alfredo De La Fe, one of whose sonographic creams was the debut salsa-and-more fusion album, Alfredo. Based between New York and Colombia, Alfredo worked with many of the greats in Latin music, including Eddie Palmieri, Willie Colon and Roberto Roena, as well as disco and soul icons Sylvester and Aquarian Dream. For a debut solo record, Alfredo is a real charm offensive, and a valiant experiment at that, mixing Latin dancefloor crunches with De La Fe's own, unusually additive violin, placed centre stage as he solos. The record - a favourite of legendary New York club The Paradise Garage - tonally shifts past the halfway mark, eschewing the A-side's chroma-jazzy clavier discombobulations for an early four-to-the-floor, daresay proto deep house excursion, 'Hot To Trot'.
Review: Dee C Lee has been singing and performing for over 40 years now, perhaps most famously with Paul Weller's Style Council although teaming up with Guru on his Jazzmatazz. This amazing soul singer has now released her most recent album Just Something which his her fourth album overall and her first since 1998. The tracks that are getting wide play and buzz include the beautiful and soulful single 'Walk Away'. Also, last year's double sided single with the positive and wonderful 'Don't Forget About Love' along with the more funky 'Be There In The Morning'. Each song is strong in their own right. Kudos to the Acid Jazz label for releasing this on vinyl for us to enjoy.
Review: This long-lost 1973 album from Graham Dee is a fabled record from the man who was a key figure in the 60s London session scene and later a prolific songwriter and producer, and it is now released on vinyl for the first time. Dee was a renowned session guitarist who played with legends like Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck as well as artists such as John Lee Hooker and The Walker Brothers. After working with them, he became an in-house producer for Atlantic Records and honed a distinctive 'British Soul sound.' In the 70s, he moved to the U.S., writing songs and working at the legendary Muscle Shoals. Mr. Super Cool was only rediscovered in 2019 and it's clear to hear Dee's unique talent on a record that offers a fascinating glimpse into early 70s recording.
Review: Delegation is a British soul, funk, and disco band known for their success across Europe, though they remained relatively under the radar in the U.S. Formed in 1975 by Jamaican singer Ricky Bailey, the group's music quickly gained traction with their first single, 'The Promise of Love' and follow up 'Where Is the Love We Used to Know' became a hit in Britain. Despite frequent lineup changes, Bailey was a consistent member throughout as the band recorded much of their music in London, including their popular Eau de Vie album in 1979. The band continued to evolve until the early 1990s and put out new music back in 20121. This is a comprehensive Best Of across two sides of coloured vinyl.
Review: We're not sure of the back-story of Devlon Lamarr's eponymous trio, but this debut album for Colemine is an absolute killer. Lamarr is a virtuoso organist, and it's jammed-out Hammond organ and electric piano solos that naturally take centre stage throughout. That said, both drummer David McGraw and guitarist Jimmy James play their part throughout, with the former's ambidextrous fills and the latter's raw licks also catching the ear throughout. Musically, the tracks range from Meters-style heavy funk and lounge soul workouts to a range of cuts more heavily influenced by the blues of John Lee Hooker and the similarly instrumental brilliance of Booker T and the MGs.
Review: The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio are masters of the lost art of music that really makes you feel good without being cheap or cheesy. Making their sound so good is a careful mix of 60s organ jazz a la Jimmy Smith, some soulful strutting that Booker T would be proud of and plenty of sprinkles of Motion or Stax magic. The band is lead by Delvon Lamarr, a self-taught virtuosic musician who light sup each and every track, much like the warm, whirring organs that bring the funk. Expert drums and conversational playing styles all help make this one a real stand out.
Review: The Martin Denny reissue series continues at pace with one of his most sought-after albums. Exotic Moog was initially released in 1969 and pretty much does what it says on the tin - takes the iconic Moog synth and conjures up all manner of exotic and spaced-out sounds that leave you laying back and gazing on in awe. There's a retro-future feel to them which makes them all the more likable, and though some are beatless pieces of suspensory scene-setting, there are some breezy grooves like 'I Talk To The Trees' and sentimental space waltzes like 'The Enchanted Sea'. A characterful world of cinematic sounds for sure.
Review: Singer, poet and painter Di Melo (real name Roberto De Melo Santos) released his debut album in 1975 and it has since become a cult classic. If you can find a copy on second-hand markets it will cost you a small fortune so thankfully Fatiado Discos reissue it here in all its glory. The glorious tracks unite tango, soul, funk and MPB with lovely vocal work and plenty of Latin flair. Musically creative throughout, it is right up there with peers Jorge Ben and Tim Maia, and this version includes an insert with photos from personal family archives.
Review: Manu Dibango's grooves will never dull with time. The Cameroonian sax man made some of the most infectious, feel-good funk to ever transmit from the African continent, and here's one of his heavy-hitting high-watermarks, reissued by Soul Makossa. African Voodoo originally came out in 1972, a year that saw nearly all Dibango's most revered jams cut loose on an unsuspecting public. These sessions were recorded in France with Yvan Julien on trumpet, Slim Pezin on guitar, Jacques Bolgnesi on trombone and Lucien Dobat on drums to name but a part of the line-up, but of course it's Dibango holding court on the vibes, marimba, sax and organ who brings the unmistakable magic to the music.
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