Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: The Fishmans are a Japanese band who were very ahead of their time. Formed in 1987, they mixed reggae, dub and psychedelia into their live ensemble. If that wasn't groundbreaking enough, through the 90s they also added elements of ambient, synth pop and shoegaze. This double album, originally released in 2005, is now available on vinyl for the first time. Standouts include the live version of the shimmering 'A Piece of Future', the spacey lullaby 'Weather Report' and the rocksteady 'Magic Love'. The charm of the band is immediately understood after one listen to this album - one of our favourite Japanese vinyl transfers of the year so far.

Review: Ella Fitzgerald will forever be a legend in the jazz world thanks to her unparalleled vocal talents and ability to infuse jazz with deep emotion. Released in 1962 and reissued here, Take Love Easy pairs Fitzgerald with the exceptional pianist Bill Evans and together they make for a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. Featuring a selection of lush ballads and smooth, understated jazz standards, this record highlights Fitzgerald's delicate phrasing and expressive delivery with songs like 'Don't Be That Way' and 'Gee Baby, Ain't I Good To You'.

Review: Ella Fitzgerald, the First Lady of Song, and legendary jazz guitarist Joe Pass reunited for their second duet album, Fitzgerald & Pass... Again, originally released in 1976. This collaboration has become a jazz classic, with Fitzgerald winning the 1977 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album for her performance. Fitzgerald's impeccable musicianship shines through, showcasing her unparalleled ability to convey the essence of a lyric. Pass complements her perfectly, displaying his virtuosity and strength as an accompanist. The album features four Duke Ellington classics, reimagined versions of 'Tis Autumn' and 'Tennessee Waltz,' and mesmerising wordless performances of 'Rain' and ''One Note Samba.' This 180-gram reissue by Analogue Productions, cut from existing metal parts mastered by Doug Sax from the original analog master tape and pressed at Quality Record Pressings, ensures optimal sound quality. The album is housed in a single pocket Stoughton Printing tip-on jacket.

Review: Between The Sheets gets a special 30th Anniversary remaster here. The celebrated 1993 album by smooth jazz group Fourplay, featuring Bob James on piano, Lee Ritenour on guitar, Nathan East on bass and vocals, and Harvey Mason on drums) is a hallmark of smooth jazz greatness that earned gold certification and charted at No. 2 on Billboard's Top Jazz Albums and No. 15 on Top R&B Albums. Known for tracks like the Isley Brothers' remake 'Between The Sheets' with Chaka Khan, and the lively 'Amoroso,' it also includes Bob James' elegant 'Chant.' This anniversary edition comes on 180g double vinyl, remastered from original tapes, with a gatefold sleeve and new liner notes by Charles Waring.