Back catalogue:

Review: This Mr Bongo Brazil 45 reissue features two classic tracks from legendary duo Jorge Ben and Miriam Makeba. Side A presents 'Xica Da Silva,' one of Jorge Ben's most iconic songs from his equally legendary Africa Brazil album which has long been a must-have for any discerning head. This magical MPB track with its laid-back funky samba vibe instantly transports you to the blissful shores of Rio de Janeiro as Ben's vocals tell the story of a historic Brazilian icon. On the flip side, Miriam Makeba delivers a captivating, slowed-down rendition of 'Xica da Silva' which is enriched with strutting guitar, off-beat piano, and hypnotic drums while her powerful voice takes centre stage.

Review: Hyped in hushed tones, the latest dubbing by studio troubadour Mad Professor has been so successfully kept under wraps, that relevant preview clips and contextual info online for it remain intentionally, ambiguously short, and relatively impervious to sleuthing. Of course, this would reflect the anxious ambivalence of wholesalers to unleash it back into to the wild; it only goes with the territory of dubplate culture! But they may have good reason to um and ahh, since this is a rare, and perhaps the only, example of a Mad Professor rerub of a Marvin Gaye tune, and not just any: it's none other than 'What's Going On?', of course! The version first surfaced on KLTY Radio and has never heard a proper release since. Avianca Dubs does the honours of ducting two versions on wax, in what is sure to be a faster-than-light shelf-clearer...

Review: Cover songs can sometimes be difficult to tackle for an artist and even more so if it's a completely different genre. However, lending a fresh reggae twist to Toto's classic hit makes for a a great example of a successful one here. On side one, the English version of 'Georgy Porgy' features a laid-back, smooth reggae rhythm, with the iconic guitar hook reimagined as a reggae riff, giving the song a relaxed while still infectious vibe. Ethel Lindsey's soothing vocals blend seamlessly with the rhythm section, making this rendition feel both familiar and unique. On side two, the French version offers a delightful variation, with Ethel Lindsey's vocals taking on a slightly different tone, fitting the language while adding an extra layer of charm. The reggae influences remain strong and the song's laidback vibe is preserved on both versions.

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: Christine McNabb's UK lovers' 12" soul rarity, 'Love You / Combination', originally self-released in 1981. With backing vocals from Caron Wheeler, Black Slate's rhythm section and the in-house musicians at Eve Studios in Brockley, South London, this is a highly toned waft of steam; McNabb sings in a whistle register, insisting we're her one and only as she launches into a bopping improvisation near the midpoint, as an irresistible funk line chugs below, aplomb. 'Combination' is the name of the minimalised instrumental version: both tracks are standalone greats, and draw their inspirations from Afropop icons like Miriam Makeba, despite there being some crossover and cash-in on the emerging UK lovers' rock market.

Review: The Messin About crew are back once again to show they have made a fine art of arsing about. This 7" offers up two more rarities that have never before made it to vinyl but very much deserve to have done. First up they offer the lush and soulful US disco of Golden Flamingo Orchestra's 'The Guardian Angel' which will warm through any wintery dancefloor. On the flip they change the vibe entirely with Carol Grimes's 'Uphill Peace Of Mind,' which is indeed a grimy UK funk weapon that packs a seriously rhythmic punch.

Review: This EP has proved hugely popular over the years and always sells out whenever it gets reissued. This will likely be the case again here with this newly remastered version via Tri Fire. It is a cult boogie and disco blend from Robbie M and The Midnight Express show band that originally hails from Rock Island in Illinois. It includes the hip-swinging and funky 'Danger Zone' (remix) plus a more paired back instrumental version and the original which is chunky, funky, and full of playful horns. All three versions do plenty of good things to dancefloors. Don't sleep!

Review: Funk editor Mister Mushi finalises the latest fleet-dispatch by the eponymous factory known as Mushi 45. All housed on a distinctive yellow, large-innered 7" record (you know, the you need the metal spindle adapter for), every release on this label is a charm. Here the dotted line marks out a well-defined classic by Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock from 1998, 'It Takes Two', which in turn samples Lynn Collins' 'Think', after which this reissue is named and from which the now rather saturated vocal sample originates. James Brown's original production and backing "c'mon!" admonitions shine brightly, while Mushi's extra phattenings also serve to emphasise the mix without peaking it.

Review: Disco Donuts strike back with a back-to-back pose in the vein of pivotal disco-funk remixing from local edits master Mister Mushi. Once an out-letter of releases on his own Mushi 45 imprint, through which we heard many another reissue by the likes of Afro Breed and The Ethiopian Brothers, this second of two new migrations over to the Disco Donuts label proves a versatile sound and approach to his craft. The A-sider here features a mechanically reproducible instrumental version of Chic's 'Good Times' mashed up with Ronnie Hudson's 'West Coast Poplock', providing equal doses of freshness and reconnaissance.

Review: Ukrainian jazz singer Mona returns with a powerful funk 45 following last year's breakout 'Moya Vode' (or 'Sweet Water'). Fusing ancient folk traditions with modern cypher culture, this one delivers a message of unity and resilience while rolling on tempting grooves. Jazzy breakbeats, soaring horns and relentless clavinet and guitar riffs create the dynamic foundation for Mona's radiant vocals while loose piano and sax add a fresh live-jam feel. The vinyl edition features an exclusive instrumental version, with a Moog stepping into the lead and adding a different vibe.

Review: Micky More & Andy Tee's Groove Culture delivers a fresh spin on jazz-funk classics with a new 7-inch release. The Side-1 features a dj-friendly cover of Lonnie Liston Smith's 'Expansions,' blending disco and house with a funk-driven bassline, soulful vocals, and beautiful keys. On Side-2, it offers a high-energy remake of Light Of The World's 'Time,' featuring Angela Johnson's powerful diva vocals. This track shines with its lively disco vibe, sax intro and dancefloor appeal. Both tracks encapsulate the essence of fun disco and soul and should appeal to a wide range of dance music fans old and young.

Review: Under the Linkwood alias, Nick Moore has released a wealth of fine material since debuting in the late 2000s - including a string of sublime albums and EPs. Last year he popped his re-edit cherry alongside The Mighty Zaf via a two-tracker paying tribute to the late, great Phil Asher. Here he takes the next step, delivering a first solo scalpel missive via the reliable and long-running Moton imprint. On side A, the Edinburgh producer attempts to 'Make It Better' via a razor-and-tape style edit of a slap-bass-sporting, synth-wielding slice of early 80s disco-boogie perfection. We have no idea of the source material, but the lightly extended track is as infectious as it is intriguing. Over on side B, 'No Easy' is a sweet, string-laden slab of mid-tempo disco-soul sweetness, while 'Brekkers' is a squelchy, up-tempo electrofunk workout tailor-made for break-dancers.

Review: New York's incomparable edit king, and a hugely prolific one at that, Danny Krivit aka Mr K returns with some elongated reworks of a couple of Stevie Wonder's most timeless tunes. First up is his version of 'Master Blaster' which was originally the sound of Stevie paying tribute to Bob Marley. In his hands, it has a big intro and drums ready to rock. Flip it over and you will find 'I Was Made To Love Her' which has big r&b overtones and the sort of breakdowns that really build a vibe in the club. Adding in lashings of signature soul and you have two more steamy and effective tributes from the one and only Mr K.

Review: No one edits a classic like Mr. K, as he has proven time and time again. Now the legendary studio craftsman is back and revisiting Paradise Garage and some of the club's legendary sounds. First up is TW Funkmasters' 'Love Money,' which was conceived by UK radio reggae jock Tony Williams and fuses Dennis Brown's reggae hit 'Money In My Pocket' with early rap influences. The dub version was embraced by New York's dance scene and became iconic at the 'Garage, with many homages coming later such as Larry Levan's Man Friday remake, 'Love Honey, Love Heartache.' On the flip, Janice McClain's 1979 Philly disco classic 'Smack Dab In The Middle' shines as Larry Levan's mix is reworked by Mr. K who turns up the jazzy groove with fresh breaks.

Review: Mr. K Edits' latest release caters to roller skaters and groove enthusiasts alike. It features two mid-tempo tracks uniquely edited by the studio scalpel master himself as they make their debut on 45rpm. First is Rodney Franklin's 'Felix Leo,' which was originally overshadowed by his hit 'The Groove.' It unfolds with hypnotic chords trimmed to their essence and unfolds at a gradual, majestic pace with captivating and lush strings making it all the immersive. Second up is Prince's early gem 'In Love' which showcases his instrumental prowess with drums, bass, guitar, and creamy synth lines. Mr. K extends the mix seamlessly, enhancing its danceable rhythm and timeless appeal with his usual class.

Review: French funk lovers Acts of Sedition roll out another tasty double 7" here that features some massive joints from around the world. First up is the Latin heat of Rare Cuts's 'Amigo Bracno' with its big, bright leads, string lushness and percolating, percussive groove goodness all finished with a great Portuguese vocal. Monsieur Van Pratt Le Groove's 'El Rap Clap O' (Regroove) hits a little harder but with similar funk playfulness and some great chord work and Bully Boy then offers the raw and strident funk of 'Fear'n'Loathing In Funk Vegas.' Ben Jamin slows it right down with the sun-kissed late night bliss of 'Old Time Feeling.'

Review: Nothing by Louis Cole, a collaboration with the Metropole Orkest conducted by Jules Buckley, blends classical orchestration with dance music, pop, and jazz, showcasing Cole's unique and ultra-flexible production style. The album features 17 tracks, 15 of which are brand new, avoiding orchestral renditions of his hits and instead presenting fresh compositions. The lead single, 'Things Will Fall Apart,' highlights Cole's feather-light vocals over an exciting orchestration of funk percussion, strings, horns and barbershop backup vocals. Recorded during live performances, Nothing captures the energy and emotion of Cole's multi-date sold-out European tour with the Metropole Orkest. The project emphasises Cole's desire to create music with deep emotional impact while remaining straightforward and accessible. Cole meticulously mixed the album himself, ensuring his pure vision was realised.

Review: During the 35 years of making music, Dave Lee has constantly been searching for new singers and writers to work with. A search that's ended up with many fantastic collaborations and releases with the likes of Thelma Houston, Taka Boom, Diane Charlemagne and Seal. More recently this quest led him to Maurissa Rose and the creation of their album 'London / Detroit'. After hearing Maurissa's voice on a Theo Parrish record Dave reached out to her and after a few long phone conversations and mp3 swaps, they both agreed a visit to London would be much more fun than trying to work together remotely. Maurissa made the journey from her home in Detroit to write and record an album with Dave at his studio in March 2022 - as they both feel that creating music together in the same room is always better. The fruits of their labour yielded 11 brand new songs (and 1 cover) tapping into their collective love of Soul, Disco and R&B, with a sprinkle of Soulful House. This album is a special one for Dave Lee as it's the first time in his career he's recorded an entire album with the same singer on every track.

Review: German funk heroes The Mighty Mocambos continue to prove that their funk is an ever-evolving force, navigating between the worlds of gritty, organic soul and cinematic experimentation with unapologetic energy. Their latest offering marks another step forward, refining the groove-laden formula that's earned them global acclaim while pushing into new territory. The opening track hits hard with orchestral flair on 'Road to Earth,' where the legendary Peter Thomas's arrangements lay the foundation for a full-on sonic odyssey. As they move through the album, tracks like 'It's the Music' and 'Hot Stuff' groove like a classic, with Afrika Bambaataa's presence lifting the energy and ensuring a tight vibe. But it's not all about party anthems. 'Not Get Caught' from DeRobert tells a story that's as gritty as it is soulful, capturing a narrative of crime with a raw, undeniable swagger. Even more dynamic is the standout 'Catfight,' which melds mysterious Eastern flavours with a tripped-out break, displaying a versatility that refuses to be boxed in. This is an album of triumphs, not just in the power of individual tracks but in the overall cohesion of sound and spirit, and by taking a step further into uncharted waters while keeping their infectious funk roots firmly grounded, The Mighty Mocambos challenge expectations and push boundaries. A showcase of a band in full flight, steadily rising.

Review: The Modulations released their album It's Rough Out Here in 1975, not only impressing both industry and laity with the singles 'Rough Out Here and 'I Can't Fight Your Love', but also spurring the considerable career of a funk quartet whose merit outdoes their reputation alone. The Modulations recorded extensively with MFSB, the house band of the famed record label Philadelphia International; these sessions yielded this album, one considered a gem of 1970s soul music. Exemplary of the long, wistful titles of the Philly funk era and beyond, the titular roughness of the record is also nonetheless embedded in a sea of audible Romance; the Modulations' hard knocks don't exclude the necessity of letting emotion in, with 'Head On Collision With Heartbreak' being an indelible example of this sense of being swept up in one's own emotions in the face of heartbreak, away from the perseverance aesthetics of "gritty" realism one might expect from a title like this.

Review: Pianist and composer Alex Monfort debuts his new album here and delivers a beautifully contemporary array of soul-jazz songs influenced by rap, hip-hop, alt-r&b and neo-soul. The album is denied by a blend of tightly broken beats and lovely Rhodes chords, soothing harmonies but most of all the rich vocals of Franco-Cameroonian singer Nina Tonji. Fans of the likes of Moonchild, Erykah Badu, Fatima and Eglo Records are sure to soak up the soothing sounds of 'Hypnotized', the romantic feels of 'Attitude' and late-night intimacy of 'Saison' amongst much more.

Review: The long-lost disco-soul-funk album You Can Be by the Music Makers Band is finally seeing the light of day on vinyl once more with new mixes from original multi-track tapes by Kenny Dope. Forgotten in a linen closet in Macon, Georgia since 1979, this reel-to-reel treasure contains recordings from the group that previously released 'Black Gold' as The Mighty Chevelles in 1977. By 1979, now known as Music Makers Band, they captured this disco-funk gem at Capricorn Studios and here each track shines anew thanks to the fine work of funk lover Kenny Dope's work.