Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Athens Of The North represent one of Australia's finest soul exponents Renee Geyer. "Be There In The Morning" comes in two forms... The 1977 version will be recognised from her most successful album of the time Moving Along. An upbeat fusion of soul and funk with mild disco nuances, it comes with confident orchestration and an instantly infectious, ultimately emphatic chorus. The real coup here, however, is the softer, dreamier earlier version that's so rare it never left the confines of her native country. It's digging like this that makes the young-but-hugely-potential rare music label Athens Of The North a very exciting prospect for record collectors.

Review: Last year, the Expansions label kicked off a wonderfully intriguing 10" series featuring classics from soul music's rich canon complemented by contemporary cover versions and so far it's seen Blue Note troupe Quasimode tee off against Johnny Hammond and Bembe Segue challenge Norman Connors. A third edition duly arrives and hints Expansions are really enjoying the creative challenge the concept allows them with the jazz funk classic "Zaius" from Eddie Russ joined by a cover from the celebrated UK funk veterans Incognito. Originally appearing on the 1976 LP See The Light, "Zaius" is a blinding example of why Russ is described a master of the keyboard and it's complemented well by Incognito's B Side cover which appears on vinyl for the first time. Don't sleep!

Review: Rediscover the hidden treasure of 1970s Harlem soul and funk with the Ray Alexander Technique, now officially reissued for the first time. Let's Talk offers bonus tracks and previously unreleased alternate mixes that all add up to a collection of unabashedly sincere songs with a nice authentic and lo-fi aesthetic. It captures the essence of the era's black pride and cultural awareness, alongside the poignant emotion of pursuing dreams amidst urban decline. With its soulful melodies and raw authenticity, this album resonates with the vibrant spirit of Harlem, transporting you immediately to a time of resilience and creativity against the backdrop of a changing neighbourhood.

Review: In the midst of disco's golden era, The Ritchie Family released their vibrant second album, 'Arabian Nights' a captivating fusion of disco and Broadway showmanship. The track, 'The Best Disco in Town', exudes an infectious energy, featuring elements of funk and disco that ignite the dance floor. Another standout track, 'Baby I'm on Fire', embodies the excess and drama of the disco scene. Its sultry lyrics and pulsating beats evoke a theatrical ambiance. The album's mesmerising anthem, 'Istanbul' combines disco rhythms with dramatic crescendos, creating an unforgettable musical experience. With its diverse range of tracks, from energetic to sensual, Arabian Nights captures the spirit of the disco era.

Review: Chicago funk band Royal Flush release sonly one full length on their local Texas label Lucky and that was Hot Spot. They did so in 1980 before later reissuing it via GEC and although it isn't one of the most well known albums amongst funk heads, we think that is rather a crime because it is a top notch if not underrated album. It is couched in the traditions of the genre but with nods to styles like P-Funk. If you can find an OG copy you will have to shell out plenty of money and although this same label put out a CD version in 1994, it has not been reissued on vinyl before.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Remind Me: The Classic Elektra Recordings 1978-1984 celebrates the unmatched talent of a jazz and r&b legend whose influence extends far beyond her chart success. Rushen's songs, including hits like 'Forget Me Nots' and 'Haven't You Heard,' have left an indelible mark on popular music, with countless artists sampling her work. Despite facing criticism and lackluster label support, Rushen's crossover into sophisticated urban pop paved the way for future R&B and hip-hop hits. This compilation shows Rushen's talents as a musician and arranger, with her production providing the building blocks for decades of musical innovation. Tracks like 'Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up' and 'Remind Me' highlight Rushen's electrifying performances and innovative sound. Rushen's timeless music remains as relevant and influential as ever, cementing her status as a true icon of musical innovation and creativity.