Review: Detour Records proudly presents the latest single from The Sha La La's, 'Always The Heartache' b/w 'Carpenter Of Love' and 'Straighten Up,' available on all formats, including limited edition 7" vinyl. The A-side kicks off with a fuzz guitar riff that sets a west coast tone, leading listeners through a Mod-infused journey. 'Carpenter of Love' showcases Darron Robinson's powerful vocals alongside a soulful Hammond organ, embodying the spirit of London's Mod scene. The B-side closes with 'Straighten Up,' a fiery 1:30 instrumental, fusing Small Faces-style energy with Booker T's groove for an exhilarating finish.
Review: In 1969, Albina in the US underwent a pivotal transformation which saw the arrival of Black residents displaced by the Vanport floods. While a local Black economy thrived to start with, the neighbourhood eventually got neglected due to disinvestment by the city's elites but citizens didn't take it lying down and some of them formed Shades Of Brown, a group that emerged at the Albina Arts Center which was a haven for artists during civil unrest. With members from various musical acts, they found unity under leader Thara Memory who instilled discipline and required them to read and write music before performing. This EP, which is the group's sole record, embodies their camaraderie and the community's struggle against neglect across six raw-as-you-like funk cuts laden with emotion and narrative.
Review: The Shake & Bake Band's Shake & Bake is an undeniable invitation to hit the dancefloor. Side-1 kicks off with 'Shake & Bake (part 1),' where the band lays down a groove that's nothing short of exhilarating. The track stands out for its originality, offering a vibe that feels almost hedonisticiperfect for those looking to experience something fresh and exciting. On Side-2, 'Shake & Bake (part 2)' strips things down, bringing in a hoedown-like twist with the addition of a harmonica. The drumming intensifies, building excitement as the funkiness truly shines through in this version. Overall, Shake & Bake delivers two distinctive takes on a groove that will keep the energy high and the dancefloor moving.
Review: In 1969, Manny Campbell discovered a talented group in a showcase and promptly arranged a recording session. Their debut demos, 'Love is the Way' and 'Something Wonderful,' were recorded at Upper Darby Studios. Seeking a richer sound, they transitioned to Sigma Sound Studios around 1970 to produce 'Trouble Trouble.' Named by Campbell as Sharisma, the group embodied soulful charm. Unfortunately, their Vietnam-bound lead singer delayed the release so Campbell, inspired by his own son's troubles, penned 'Trouble Trouble.' Although shelved due to missing members, the tracks remained and now get pressed up to wax for your pleasure.
Review: This one from The Sharpees's is a mythical gem among vinyl collectors that has long been revered in the Northern Soul scene. The story began when UK dealer John Anderson discovered an acetate titled 'Go On and Laugh' in Chicago with no artist name. It was sold to DJ John Vincent, who credited it to the Just Brothers, fuelling further curiosity. Years later in 2016, USA label Secret Stash unearthed the mystery by revealing the artist as The Sharpees who were known for hits like 'Do the 45' and 'Tired of Being Lonely'. Now, Anorax reissues this limited edition 7" alongside 'Tired of Being Lonely' to feed enduring demand.
Review: This record comes at a sad time, as Marlena Shaw passed away in January 2024, the New York born soul singer with her unmistakable voice leaving a long list of amazing credits and performances when she departed. This magnificent double 7" focuses on her early years in the late 1960s, work she did on the highly influential Cadet label just before she moved to Blue Note. 'California Soul', 'Liberation Conversation', 'Let's Wade In The Water' and 'Woman Of The Ghetto' are all soul classics by the late songbird, and all gathered togethere here into one unmissable EP.
Review: By the time "Touch Me In The Morning" was mailed out to American DJs in 1979, Marlena Shaw has long since established herself as one of soul music's greatest voices. "Touch Me In The Morning" was merely a promo-only affair, remixed from the shorter "Take A Bite" album version - but it did become something of a dancefloor anthem in certain underground clubs. Here, the sought-after 12" is given a replica reissue, with the stomping, string-drenched title track being accompanied by exactly the same B-side cuts as the '79 pressing.
Review: The man with the Masterplan returns to Daptone after last year's "Casual Encounter". Once again it's a two-sides-two-vibes situation as the 30-year-standing funk veteran flexes his strengths. "Get With The Program" lives up to its name with total boogie badness, falsetto fire and a bassline so juicy Dapton's vaults have been flooded. "Heads Or Tails" flips to reveal Shorts' smoochier palette. Rich, honeyed vocals and a steamy message: everyone's a winner.
Review: The second Shuggy Edits 7" to hit the shelves in 2024, and the fifth overall, this esteemed edits series by the otherwise mysterious Shuggy nonetheless makes for one of the most in-demand around. This time we've two further funk and soul come bombastic hip-hop edits to contend with: first up is a version of Baby Huey's 'Hard Times', a tromboning 1971 strut by the American singer whose sole LP for Curtom Records was instrumental in the development of hip-hop; Shuggy lends the a harder, steeple-high, needlepoint edit-edge. This is further teased out on the B-side, whose 'Harder Times' hears a phat breakbeat and brass bass parp further teased out to frighteningly formidable effect.
Review: Shuggy's It's A Soul Thing featuring Alvin Worthy offers a captivating blend of soul and urban vibes. The vocal mix on Side-1 exudes catchiness and hipness, with smooth vocals delivered over a backdrop of sleek instrumentation. The track boasts a great horn section that adds depth and texture, contributing to its overall urban feel. On Side-2, the instrumental version showcases the band's excellent playability, with a groovy arrangement that allows the instrumentation to shine. Overall, 'It's A Soul Thing' is a standout offering from Shuggy, blending soulful vocals with tight musicality to create a track that is both infectious, enjoyable and a lot of fun.
Review: Another example of a classic disco track being thrust into the modern age thanks to TikTok, Silk's 'I Can't Stop (Turning You On)' was recently flipped by LF System in 'Afraid to Feel', turning the slow-burning Philly soul bopper into a hyper-speed house banger. For fans of that original sample, being able to hear the sultry vocals of Debrah Henry being manipulated by bpm. The Philadelphia septet hit the nail square on the head with this sensual love make that is so detracted from it's descendant that you're about to have two new favourite songs.
Review: Long before Ashford & Simpson cemented themselves as the first couple of Motown, Valerie Simpson i raised in the Bronx i was quietly shaping the sound of American soul from the writing room. 'Look Away', now unearthed in its original form by Kent Records, captures her early brilliance. Backed by a haunting girl group (likely some of NYC's finest session singers), this previously unheard cut i out 25 April 2025 i predates the Shirelles' better-known version and carries a raw elegance that feels entirely her own: intimate, aching, and full of melodic poise. Flip it over and you get an even bigger scoop. 'It's Just Love' is a northern soul cornerstone, made famous by a near-mythical 1966 UK-only Parlophone 7" from John Andrews. This female-led take by Simpson, who co-wrote the song, is a seismic find i not just for collectors but for dancers who've long hunted a US production that didn't seem to exist. Now, more than 50 years on, it arrives with velvet touch and timeless sway, offering a rare, crystalline view of Simpson before the spotlight.
Review: Benny Sings' eighth studio album, Music, is a breezy and charming collection that showcases his knack for crafting catchy pop-soul tunes. Collaborations with artists like Mac Demarco and Emily King add depth to the album, highlighting Benny's songwriting strengths, while the album's sound gravitates towards blue-eyed soul and yacht rock, characterised by sunny melodies and hip-hop-infused beats. While Benny's songs exude a feelgood vibe, their lyrical content is special when particularly he is exploring themes of love. Standout tracks like 'Rolled Up' and 'Miracles' benefit from the infusion of personality brought by guest artists like Mac Demarco and Emily King, who add depth and dimension to Benny's compositions. The album's collaborations and Benny's signature style make for an enjoyable listening experience.
Review: Harlem Shuffle present the first 7" re-release of a legendary late 60s reggae cut with a fascinating backstory. Both sides are credited to Joe Gibbs on the buttons, but there has always been debate about who is singing on 'People Grudgeful' and 'Pan Ya Machete'. The smart money is on it being The Pioneers, not least given the A side tune is a sharp riposte to Lee 'Scratch' Perry taking a pop at the group on his track 'People Funny Boy'. It's heartening to know there were beef tracks even back then, no matter how sweet the ska skank sounds on record.
Review: A short name hides a long story - Detroit-born Chad Hughs graduated from the same high school as Diana Ross, going onto become a multi-talented musician as well as a teacher and composer. The fourth release from cd exclusive vinyl pressers Jai Alai, collectors can now own this unique 7" containing two completely different sides of Sir Wick from his two albums. A side's title track 'Seal My Heart' contains the vocal talents of Sedalia Marie, with layered vocals and a baseline that makes this pure soul song feel deeply cinematic. The B side has been decades in the making, selected from a fully orchestrated musical in the works since 1996, finally being recorded and completed in 2017. These two tracks are deeply sentimental ditties of doting young love, and now two rare soul ballads from a musical luminary are available for the first time on a 45. What better soundtrack to date night than these?
Review: Two of Finnish label Timmons regulars in their house band Cold Diamond & Mink and heart-melting vocalist Emilia Sisco come together once more here following previous successes such as 2019's vital 7", 'Don't Believe You Like That'. The gorgeous 'Trouble' has wah-wah pedals and slow-turning rhythms imbued with lush soul from Sisco under laissez-faire horns. 'It'll Get Better' is more intimate with organ chords shimmering over a sentimental groove. These are two timeless jams that could be forgotten 60s classics as much as great new cuts.
Review: Emilia Sisco is a rising star on the revered Timmion Records and here graces us with another soulful ballad. Teaming up with in house greats Cold Diamond & Mink, she delivers 'Let Me In,' which is a deep soul gem that effortlessly drifts over a southern-influenced beat with melodic finesse. The spine-tingling chorus with its nuanced twists showcase Emilia's remarkable talent to evoke a timeless, bittersweet love that washes over the listener like the Mississippi River. On the flip side, her previous single 'Love Can Carry Me' comes as an instrumental titled 'Way Past Midnight' and featuring a jazzy Grant Green-style guitar.
Review: Emilia Sisco's latest 7" vinyl single is a stunning tribute to the enduring charm of vintage soul music. Backed by the renowned Timmion Records house band Cold Diamond & Mink, Sisco delivers a standout double-sided record that captivates from start to finish. On the Side-1, 'Lemon Lime Sour,' Sisco's dynamic vocals glide effortlessly over infectious crossover soul rhythms, crafting an irresistible groove that celebrates the complex emotions of love. The track's upbeat energy beckons listeners to dance along while embracing its uplifting message. Flipping to Side-2 reveals 'Love Can Carry Me,' a soulful beat ballad that highlights Sisco's evolution as both a songwriter and vocalist. With its poignant lyrics and haunting melodies, the song creates an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective tale of resilience and optimism. In today's uncertain climate, these two tracks embody the essence of heartfelt, groove-driven music created by genuine artists. Pairing Sisco's remarkable vocal ability with Cold Diamond & Mink's expert musicality, this new single promises to please soul music lovers worldwide.
Review: Emilia Sisco's latest 7" single is a testament to the timeless allure of vintage soul music. Backed by the esteemed Timmion Records house band Cold Diamond & Mink, Sisco delivers a stellar double-sider that captivates the listener from start to finish. A-sider 'Lemon Lime Sour' hears Sisco's spirited vocals soar over infectious crossover soul terrain, crafting an irresistible groove that celebrates the bittersweet feeling of falling in love. Meanwhile, the flip reveals the B-side, 'Love Can Carry Me', a soul-stirring beat ballad that flaunts Sisco's growth both as a songwriter and a vocalist. The song's emotive lyrics and dark melodies create an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective narrative of resilience and hope.
Review: Emilia Sisco's debut album, Introducing Emilia Sisco on Timmion Records, dives into the world of vintage soul with ten original tracks co-written with the acclaimed Cold Diamond & Mink band. Now we get two singles from it on a vital and indie exclusive clear 7" including the gospel-soul groove of 'Your Girl' to the heartfelt 'Too Late,' both songs reflect her deep connection to soul's emotional roots with gentle but uplifting vocals alongside lush, organic arrangements. Sisco's voice effortlessly layers harmonies that merge classic soul with a modern touch to create a sound that feels both timeless and new.
Review: Emilia Sisco's debut album, Introducing Emilia Sisco on Timmion Records, dives into the world of vintage soul with ten original tracks co-written with the acclaimed Cold Diamond & Mink band. Sisco's voice effortlessly layers harmonies that merge classic soul with a modern touch to create a sound that feels both timeless and new. Now we get two singles from it on a vital 7" including the gospel-soul groove of 'Your Girl' to the heartfelt 'Too Late,' both songs reflect her deep connection to soul's emotional roots with gentle but uplifting vocals alongside lush, organic arrangements.
Review: This mysterious, steamy and intense funk track is said to have been first discovered on an unlabelled acetate in New York some years ago. It is the sort of passionate and irresistible jam that will electrify both Northern Soul lovers and funked-up dance floors. Its unknown origins add plenty of allure to this one, but the powerful groove, raw live drums and mad xylophones are what really make it a standout gem despite being so short. It comes on a limited one-sided 7" and won't be around long.
Review: New York City ska and reggae institution The Slackers have been doing their do for some 30 odd years now. Their latest release 'Kill You', though, shows no signs of staleness with plenty of fresh and futuristic perspectives. Recorded during the sessions for Don't Let the Sunlight Fool Ya, the A-side here is an epic at over seven minutes, while the B-side features a dub mix of 'Statehouse' from the band's Sunlight long player. It is a tune with a long and winding backstory that first saw it as an updated version of 'Wrongful Suspicion' which the band's frontman Vic Ruggiero co-wrote for Rancid back in the 90s.
Review: Unearthed from Portland's Albina district, this release revives a slice of 1975 funk that deserves the spotlight. These horn-led tracks balance tight rhythm with unfiltered joy, capturing the raw energy that defined Deep Funk's early days. Both sides are undeniable gems, blending weighty grooves with an effortless flow. This is a limited release, pressed on 7" vinyl with a dinked centre and capped at 500 copies, each packaged in a picture sleeve. It's a vital reissue for those who appreciate the power of funk in its most genuine formigritty, vibrant, and timeless.
Review: Flower Records fusion masters Masato Komatsu and Ryo Kawahara are Slowly and are adept at everything from dub to disco, soul to post-rock. They have been turning it out at a steady rate recently on labels like Oscarson but mostly Flower. Following a couple of standout 7"s in 'Tripping Out' and 'Let Some Love In' already this year comes 'Time Trip.' It is a lush bit of slow motion big beat and dub, with heavily treated Japanese language vocals over a fat, churning rhythm. An instrumental is also included on this crucial 7".
Review: Slowly teams up with Swish Jaguar to deliver a stunning cover of Wee's mellow soul classic 'You Can Fly On My Aeroplane.' This dreamy lovers' soul track beautifully blends vintage vibes with modern flair, featuring the talkbox talents of Swish Jaguar (aka Sam Wish), known for his work with Tuxedo. The collaboration shines with Yusuke Hirado's smooth Fender Rhodes and Tsuyoshi Kosuga's versatile guitar and bass work, creating a lush, nostalgic soundscape.Side-1's vocal track exudes warmth and elegance, perfect for setting the mood at any soul or funk set. On Side-2, the instrumental version offers DJs a versatile tool to weave into their mixes. With its impeccable musicianship and timeless appeal, this 7" bridges the gap between classic soul and contemporary groove.
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