Back catalogue: Balearic/Downtempo

Review: The crucial Original Gravity label is busy this month with three red hot new 7"s all dropping in quick succession. The top-notch funk crew has this spilt 7" from Umoza Music Project and The Woodfield Road Allstars up here on limited wax. The a-side is a sunny bit of original rousing 70s reggae direct from the islands. Backing vocalists provide plenty of butter while the lead laments a love lost and the rhythm rolls on. On the back side is a much more stoner-paced and funk drenched laidback instrumental with Balearic guitar licks that look to the stars as organ chords warm you through and the rocksteady rhythm gently sways to and fro. Two gems for sure.

Review: Curated by none other than the distinguished DJ and cultural curator Luke Una. Known for his eclectic tastes and deep connections in the music world, Luke brings his expertise to Everything Above The Sky (Astral Travelling with Luke Una), a collection designed to evoke late-night, introspective soundscapes.
This compilation reflects Luke's ongoing quest to find music that transcends the everyday, making astral travel through sound a tangible experience. Drawing from his vast knowledge and numerous conversations with record shop owners, tastemakers, and music enthusiasts, Luke has meticulously selected tracks that offer a subtle, soulful journey. The music flows gently, never overwhelming, instead inviting listeners into a space where simple, heartfelt melodies can lead to profound reflection and escape. Everything Above The Sky is a snapshot into Luke Una's ability to craft soundscapes that resonate deeply, offering an immersive listening experience that transports beyond the mundane.

Review: The Mellophonia label offshoot Fusion Sequence won us over with its well-presented and great-sounding first EP, and now a quick follow-up does the same. This one is another various artists affair that starts with some nice futuristic robot disco from Vanity Project. There is more organic and lush Balearic from Bobby Bricks and Pacific Coliseum follows that spine-tingling Ibiza sunset vibe. On the flip side, there is everything from late-night electronic house to lazy disco via Sorcerer's blissed out 'Just For Love' which would entrance any dance floor. There's as much quality as there is variation on this one, which makes it a useful EP indeed.