Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Warren 'Hanna' Harris, the multi-talented producer and instrumentalist from Cleveland, returns to Vibes And Pepper with a five-track EP of sophisticated and soulful sounds. The A-side features two previously released gems, 'Omnipotence' and 'The Dark', both timeless examples of Harris's ability to craft intricate arrangements that meld future jazz, broken beat and deep house influences, while the B-side unveils three previously unreleased tracks, highlighting his deft hand in manipulating sound, creating a landscape of unconventional sounds and structures. 'His Eyes (Detroit Remix)' is a standout, its mesmerising groove and soulful melodies take us to the heart of Motor City, while 'Menace' takes a darker turn, its brooding bassline and haunting chords evoking a disquieting aura of suspense and mystery. 'Spirit Logical' closes the EP with a flourish, its uplifting melodies and intricate rhythms again highlighting Harris's masterful production skills.

Review: The upcoming second solo studio album by US singer-songwriter and guitarist Brittany Howard (of Alabama Shakes fame), What Now follows up Jaime and its Reimagined edition, striking out with a fierce, "truest and bluest", nigh "brutal" lyricism, in which Howard addresses the titular question - "what now?" - and how today's society might respond. Written, of course, during the height of the pandemic, when such doubts were excised and up in the air (and more so than usual), the album's sonic aesthetic spans full-bodied funk, psychedelic chord progressions, and a powerful bombast. The overall answer sounds to be: move through it; surrender to "the now", gracefully.

Review: The mighty Dusty Donuts return to Queensbridge where they encounter a 'Lost Girl' featured on a legendary mixtape by one of QB's finest. This bouncy, choppy Marc Hype & Jim Dunloop Late Night Remix is sure to ignite any gathering. On the flipside, the vibes shift from Queensbridge to Staten Island and bring a special sound to work the crowd - this heavy soul classic arrives in true Shaolin style with choppy, dark soul chords and classic hip-hop beats. It's a track that commands attention with the drums but also locks in head and heart.