Mukatsuku

Review: Mukatsuku presents the second volume of killer Ghanaian highlife/afrofunk monsters this time focusing on two artists legendary in the genre. First up first time on a 45 from 1980 is '' What Is Life '' from the Ebo Taylor & Uhuru Yenzu album ''Conflict Nkru! ''. Amazing brass,flute and afrocentric rhythms lay the path for the track once heard never forgotten. On the flip first time ever on a 45 Pat Thomas who features on volume 1 of the series comes correct with possibly the best version (and there are a few ) of ''Gyae Su'' . With its jangly african guitar licks and infectious chorus lines the feel good factor is set to maximum. Another dope afro burner on Mukatsuku and sure to sell out fast. 500 hand numbered copies and no repress. As supported by DJ Koco from Japan and Jonathon Moore (Coldcut )

Review: This year, a number of labels - most notably Dynamite Cuts - have been digging in to the seemingly bottomless archives of much-sampled American-Trinidadian artist and producer George Semper, a man many consider to be "the Godfather of Bay Area soul". Here Mukatsuku gets in on the act by offering up a fresh pressing of Semper-produced funk band In One Piece's rare, self-titled debut the first time ever on a 45. The vocal version on side A is superb, and features Cindy Jones singing attractively over a bustling, loose-limbed, B-Boy friendly rhythm track and sweaty Hammond B3 solos from jazz organist Rodney Franklin. The latter's mazy, jazzy keys-work naturally comes to the fore on the flipside instrumental, which has never before been heard let alone released until now. A genuine must-have for funk fans and B-Boys searching for drum breaks alike....As played by DJ Koco from Japan...DJ Spinna....DJ Muro...Mr Thing....Rob Life....Rob Manga....The Allergies....Smoove Evil Ed...etc