Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve split at the top but otherwise in excellent condition***


Blue Note's Tone Poets series is all about celebrating some of the greatest jazz guitarists, reissuing their seminal albums as a nod to virtuoso talent. Grant Green's 1963 album Feelin' The Spirit consisted of jazz arrangements of traditional African American spirituals such as 'Nobody Knows The Trouble I've Seen' and 'Sometimes I Feel Like A Motherless Child'. Given the historical weight of the music, it's no surprise to hear Green soaring high as he expresses the songs through his guitar, but as if that wasn't enough he's backed up by Herbie Hancock on piano, Butch Warren on bass and Billy Higgins on drums.

Review: Grant Green's Visions, released in 1971, dives into r&b and jazz-funk with an all-star lineup including Billy Wooten, Chuck Rainey, and Idris Muhammad. Green's signature tone and melodic style transform tracks from The Jackson 5, Chicago, The Carpenters, Mozart, and Quincy Jones' 'Maybe Tomorrow,' later sampled by Kendrick Lamar. This Blue Note Classic Vinyl Edition captures the original stereo mix, mastered by Kevin Gray from analog tapes, pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimalia soulful essential for collectors and fans of jazz-funk's golden era.

Review: Originally dating back to 1961, this record by American jazz guitarist Grant Green wasn't released until 1980 by Blue Note Japan. It features a quartet with pianist Sonny Clark, bassist Sam Jones, and drummer Louis Hayes who all back up Green's distinctive guitar work. Clark's soulful piano also does plenty to elevate this one and the synergy between the two musicians is a standout while creating a rich, harmonious atmosphere. Praised for its beauty back then by highly regarded by critics, in 1997 it was included in The Complete Quartets with Sonny Clark, further cementing its significance in jazz history.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Originally dating back to 1961, this record by American jazz guitarist Grant Green wasn't released until 1980 by Blue Note Japan. It features a quartet with pianist Sonny Clark, bassist Sam Jones, and drummer Louis Hayes who all back up Green's distinctive guitar work. Clark's soulful piano also does plenty to elevate this one and the synergy between the two musicians is a standout while creating a rich, harmonious atmosphere. Praised for its beauty back then by highly regarded by critics, in 1997 it was included in The Complete Quartets with Sonny Clark, further cementing its significance in jazz history.

Review: Following the success of Lo-Fi Ghibli in 2022, underground hip-hop head Grey October Sound is back with a new cover album that finds him reimagining iconic Japanese city-pop tracks through lo-fi hip-hop. It is another gem from P-VINE that features laid-back reinterpretations of classics such as Miki Matsubara's 'Mayonaka no Door,' Yasuha's 'Fly-Day Chinatown,' and Taeko Onuki's 'Tokai' alongside songs by Tatsuro Yamashita, Mariya Takeuchi and Yumi Arai. It's. Lush world of carefully hinted at nostalgic melodies with relaxed beats soothing mind, body and soul, all with a lo-fi and retro city-pop charm.

Review: Grey October Sound's latest offering blends lo-fi hip-hop with the timeless allure of Ghibli's iconic soundtracks. The album reinterprets beloved melodies with smooth, chilled-out beats and warm, atmospheric production. Tracks like 'The Bygone Days' and 'One Summer's Day' breathe new life into these classic tunes, making them feel both nostalgic and contemporary. The integration of lo-fi textures creates a soothing backdrop, perfect for unwinding or studying. This release successfully bridges the gap between two worlds, bringing a fresh, relaxed vibe to Ghibli's unforgettable music.

Review: Grey October Sound, known for their standout lo-fi hip-hop compilations like Timeless and The Cave, has gained traction in Japan and beyond. Their popular series like Lo-Fi Ghibli and Lo-fi City Popicovering iconic Studio Ghibli tracks and beloved city pop hitsihas cemented their place in the lo-fi scene. Now, they team up with Salad Days, Europe's top lo-fi/chill pop label, for a highly anticipated collaboration. This new compilation features digital lo-fi favourites from artists such as ENRA, Lenny Loops, Slowheal, and Eugenio Izzi. The visual aesthetic, including cover art, comes from celebrated illustrator Rika Nagatani, the creative force behind Lo-Fi Ghibli, adding another layer of charm to the release.

Review: Go-to lo-fi from Grey October Sound, P-Vine's resident hip-hop group and collective vibe queller. Having built a steady beatmaking operation initially from Studio Ghibli thematics and other anime associations, the group now continue to turn their hand to originals, furthering your capacity to wind down after many a long, protracted cramming sesh. Whether flashcards, cats on laps and hot steaming cocoa are or aren't your thing, that's OK, because we can bet the dragging rhythms of 'Tokai', the desultory pocket piano missive '1000%', and/or the closing crepuscule 'DOWN TOWN' will be.

Review: Muriel Grossmann's latest offering is a radiant journey into spiritual jazz, rich with groove and emotional resonance. From the first notes of 'Pointing Out, Part I', the interplay of Fender Rhodes, Hammond B3 and Moog sets a reflective tone, easing the listener into an intimate exploration. Grossmann's tenor saxophone gracefully emerges, weaving meditative phrases supported by gentle drums and guitar, inviting quiet introspection. As the record progresses, the quartet locks into mesmerising grooves. The second track propels forward with a fiery sax solo, intricate guitar work and effervescent organ passages, held together by tightly snapping drum rhythms. The finale of Side I bursts with psychedelic energy, blending soprano sax with a vibrant, r&b-infused rhythmia dazzling reminder that spiritual jazz can exude joyful movement. Side-2 opens with an ethereal mix of Hammond tones, sparse percussion and harp flourishes, building into sultry sax lines and bluesy guitar solos, creating a lush and meditative soundscape. Flute and alto sax take center stage on the next track, a vibrant celebration of connection and joy. The closer slows the pace, a contemplative tenor solo layered over a steady rhythm, drawing the album to a reflective, uplifting conclusion. Grossmann's work pulses with warmth, community and profound beauty.

Review: You might remember David Grubbs from Squirrel Bait, Bistro, or Gastr de Sol. Codeine, The Red Krayola, Bitch Magnet or The Wingdale Community Singers. New wave or punk. His own output or that of the label he runs, Blue Chopsticks. Whatever reference rings truest, the American composer, guitarist, pianist and vocalist is an enigma responsible for a broad back catalogue of credits, projects, experiments and other. Whistle From Above lands in February 2025 and immediately proves Grubbs' continued genius and refusal to sit still. According to the limited information we have, he began developing these new guitar pieces - best described as somewhere between Fender drone, ambient noise, and musique concrete - following "months of shutdown woodshedding" in which he became "reinvigorated". What resulted was a deep dive into some personal solo arrangements and opportunities to engage with fellow sonic explorers - Rhodri Davies, Andrea Belfi, Nikos Veliotis, Nate Wooley and Cleek Schrey.

Review: Spain's Discos Fantastico deals in Peruvian and Latin American musical archaeology. It has put out a vibrant array of what it describes as "psych cumbia, fuzz killer chicha, rockbeat, boogaloo, nueva ola and boleros" and now joining the great canon is Arrollando Con Alegria by Grupo Alegria - a cumbia band formed in Huancayo, Peru in the late 1970s and led by Augusto Bernardillo - which has hints of all those sounds and more. It is a classic for world music lovers that was related back in 1983 in Peru and will cost you a few quid if you are to find an original copy.

Review: Future Rootz has collaborated with Canal Sounds and EGREM for a gem of a reissue here that goes all the way back to 1977 when producer and bassist Jorge Soler stepped out as Grupo Yoyi for Yoyi, an album that marked his only known solo project. The record now sits up there as one of the rarest and most desirable albums from the Cuban musical canon as it is such a sublime fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz, funk and disco. The musicianship throughout is exceptional with mesmeric synths and evocative horn solos all tethered to the sort of grooves that will either chill you out or heat you up depending on the setting.

Review: The wonderful Our Label Records Vol. 1 celebrated two decades of rare funk 45s from the imprint's storied history and it now gets reissued for avid collectors and DJs who missed out first time around. Founded in 2005 by brothers Tom and Gu in London, the label soon got international acclaim by distributing tracks worldwide and establishing a niche for uptempo funk and soulful grooves. The compilation features hits like The New Mastersounds' 'Give Me A Minute Pt. 1 & Pt. 2' and Diazpora's 'Song 2'. With contributions from Mothergroove, Sir Ali Bengali, and Renegades Of Jazz, plus an exclusive track by The King Rooster, this release is vital to all proper funk heads.

Review: In 1968, celebrated American jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi moved away from Fantasy Records to Warner Bros and marked a new chapter with Oh, Good Grief!, his debut album on the label. Revisiting his beloved Peanuts compositions, Guaraldi expanded his signature trio setup of piano, bass and drums by incorporating electric guitar and electric harpsichord. The result was a fresh new take on his iconic themes that again resonated with fans and meant the album became a commercial success. Here remastered by Kevin Gray, this classic LP returns to vinyl and remains a joyful, nostalgic journey through Guaraldi's musical world alongside the lovable Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang.

Review: For the first time ever, this classic Charlie Brown soundtrack is now available on vinyl, offering the complete 19-track score plus a special bonus track. This timeless Peanuts special, created by Charles Schulz and directed by Phil Roman, is brought to life with Guaraldi's signature jazz-infused compositions, including beloved pieces like 'Peppermint Patty'. 'Easter Theme' and 'Snoopy and Woodstock'. This vinyl edition has been mixed and mastered from the original 2" session tapes to ensure audiophile quality, providing an enhanced listening experience for fans of jazz and Peanuts. 'Woodstock's Medley', features pianist David Benoit with original Guaraldi sidemen Seward McCain (bass) and Mike Clark (drums), recorded fifty years later at the same Hyde Street studio in San Francisco. Guaraldi's score, with its elegant title theme, playful take on Beethoven and the infectious 'Woodstock's Dream', is something for all listeners. The album's warm analogue sound brings the Easter classic to life in a way that's sure to delight both long-time fans and newcomers.

Review: This 50th Anniversary Edition of Vince Guaraldi's soundtrack features the complete 22-cue score, lovingly remastered from the original session tapes, along with eight never-before-heard bonus tracks. Guaraldi's signature sound is on full display, with his Fender Rhodes and acoustic piano creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Highlights include the sweet 'Heartburn Waltz', the playful 'Paw Pet Overture', and the tender 'Jennie L.'. The album also features alternate takes and a unique rendition of the iconic 'Linus and Lucy', showcasing Guaraldi's versatility and creativity.

Review: On A New Day, Italian pianist Giovanni Guidi rekindles his enduring musical rapport with Thomas Morgan and Joao Lobo, while expanding the trio's sonic palette by adding American saxophonist James Brandon Lewis, making his ECM debut. Recorded at Studios La Buissonne in Southern France and produced by Manfred Eicher, the album captures an elevated sense of communication and innovation. Lewis's confident, unmistakable tone introduces new dialects and perspectives, enhancing the group's interplay. The quartet navigates fresh instrumental paths with fluidity, inspired by their deep-rooted partnership and heightened collaboration. The result is a dynamic blend of jazz that explores new textures and ideas, showcasing the quartet's cohesive and adventurous spirit. Guidi's piano, Lewis's saxophone, Morgan's double bass, and Lobo's drums come together to create an album that is both reflective and forward-thinking, making A New Day a compelling new listen for Jazz fans.

Review: On her third full-length release, Brooklyn-based bassoonist, composer and producer Joy Guidry showcases the full range of her 21st century jazz repertoire. While her frequently haunting and emotionally resonant bassoon parts are naturally a focal point throughout, these distinctive and intoxicating musical movements come wrapped in deep-set ambient soundscapes (see sublime opener 'Psalm:138:7'), waves of special effects (the equally meditative 'It's Okay To Let Me Go'), the righteous release of gospel ('Members Don't Get Weary', 'Angels') and the cosmic, higher-level intent of spiritual jazz ('I Will Always Love You'). In other words, it's an impeccable ambient jazz album that deserves wider recognition.

Review: Moods and Moods Vol. 2, the sequel to the acclaimed Scandinavian piano trio album Moods, is now available worldwide on double vinyl and featuring renowned bassist Jesper Bodilsen, drummer Morten Lund and pianist Henrik Gunde. This magnificent record captures the artistry and elegance that have made these musicians standout in Scandinavian jazz. With each note and stroke through the course of this album, the skilled trio creates a mesmerising jazz sounds that is distinctive to lovers of Scandinavian stylings and full of expressive piano.

Review: The release of Vince Guaraldi's complete soundtrack for It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown marks a momentous occasion, celebrating the 55th anniversary of this beloved Peanutsr special. Rediscovered tapes unveil Guaraldi's masterful compositions, including twenty-six original tracks and six never-before-heard alternatives. Guaraldi's jazz-infused score captures the essence of Charlie Brown's summer camp escapades, accompanied by a stellar ensemble featuring Monty Budwig, Jack Sperling, and notable jazz artists like Conti, Pete Candoli, and Victor Feldman on percussion. Remastered by Vinson Hudson and produced by Sean and Jason Mendelson, this version offers a great fidelity to it. With historical images and special artwork, this edition offers fans a comprehensive experience, immersing them in the nostalgia of Schulz's iconic creation. Guaraldi's It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown soundtrack continues to enchant audiences, capturing the timeless magic of the Peanutsr universe.

Review: Guts is a renowned French producer, DJ and vinyl connoisseur known for curating impeccable selections of global sounds. He has done so three times before for this series on Heavenly Sweetness and now returns with a fourth volume that arrives just in time for party season. This essential compilation traverses vibrant Latin rhythms, dynamic Afrobeat, soulful grooves and infectious tropical rhythms to make for a far-travelling listen. Again it shows off Guts' unmatched ability to uncover hidden gems and present them with fresh energy in an eclectic yet cohesive celebration of music's global spirit.

Review: Big Crown Records presents Dave Guy's debut album Ruby. Riffing on the vapour trails emitted from past collaborations with the likes of Amy Winehouse, Lizzo, Pharrell, and Sharon Jones - and last but not least, a former membership of The Roots - Guy's solo output is a testament to his fine skill as a blissful soul producer and composer. An homage to his home parish of Queens, New York, this record was recorded in the bottomless sonic quarry that is the Diamond Mine studio. Through anthemic trumpet lines, boxy but punchy hip-hop backings, two-chord guitar lilts and triplet-time detours, Guy weaves a intricate instrumental tapestry replete with double-folded hems and flourishing handwoven cadences, one that would surely make Arachne blush.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged, record slightly warped***


Brion Gysin was a true original who left his mark on modern culture when he introduced William Burroughs to the cut-up technique, but he also recorded a swathe of experimental, funk-fuelled releases including the 1983 single 'Kick/Junk'. That single has been expanded into this album for Wewantsounds, which features Don Cherry's trumpet work on 'Kick' amongst many other talented players. It's a freewheeling listen which takes its inspiration from many places, finding space for tender folk experimentation with an African twist on 'All Those Years' and embraces jazz as a vessel for sonic and rhythmic exploration when the moment calls for it.

Review: Zouk pioneers Jacob Desvarieux, Georges, and Pierre-Edouard Decimus worked together as Kassav and to mark their 40th anniversary comes this vinyl pressing of Yelele. The group was founded in 1979 and went on to leave an indelible mark on global music. From their roots in Guadeloupe and Martinique, Kassav' popularised zouk worldwide and earned numerous gold and platinum records. Despite the tragic loss of Desvarieux to Covid-19 in 2021, Kassav's legacy thrives through their ongoing live concerts. Their music is infused with Caribbean rhythms like Guadeloupe's gwo-ka and Martinique's ti-bwa so transcends cultural boundaries and hooks in dancers everywhere from Japan to Russia. Four decades later, Kassav's timeless hits still resonate as this album reminds us.

Review: Or Bareket is a bassist and composer who is recognised for his great lyricism and rhythmic dexterity. Y?M on Enja Yellowbird is a new work which adds to that reputation and features a vital ensemble of jazz talent including Godwin Louis on alto and soprano sax, Jeremy Corren on piano, Savannah Harris on drums and production by vibraphonist Joel Ross. The LP is something of an evolution for Bareket as a leader and composer as it serves up energetic, focused and emotionally diverse music that reflects the personal and collective reckonings of navigating a post-COVID world.

Review: Disco creator T-Groove has received high praise on both the domestic Japanese and international scene. What better motive, then, to trade on his newly gilded name than to pair up with street drummer George Kano for a transformative set of grooves, in the form of 'Let Me Ride', 'Midnight Lady' and ensuing tracks? That's just what T-Groove has done on his latest record here for P-Vine, incorporating a fusion-like style exquisitely crossing between jazz, rock, Latin and quiet storm. A testament to the chemistry shared between T-Groove and Kano - drummer-and-producer-dyad extraordinaires - this is a well-cooked slice of late night urban fusion and groove.

Notes: On 28 July 2023 the Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo were invited to perform a one off live in concert at the Europa Sports Complex in Gibraltar in front of a capacity sellout.

The concert, featuring all their hits including Volare, Bamboleo and their latest smash hit single Chica Del Sol can be found here on this 19 track DVD, which also features an 8-minute interview with Tonino and the Gipsy Kings which was shot live on the viewing platform on the summit of the Gibraltar Rock.

"Performing in Gibraltar with the Gipsy Kings is always a special occasion for us all. We had an exciting day being allowed to play on the Famous Gibraltar Rock. The first time any band has been allowed to do this. The Concert features various tracks and some recent songs we have recorded. Many thanks to GBTV. We sincerely hope you enjoy the DVD. Welcome to our Fiesta. Much Love" Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo

Released to coincide with their much awaited sell out concert in London in mid-October this year, this DVD does not disappoint and Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo bring their unmistakable sound and showmanship to fans far and wide. Expect great Gipsy Guitar rhythms, unforgettable melodies and a Gipsy Vocal sound that only Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo can create.