Curtis Baker & The Bravehearts - "Fried Fish ’n’ Collard Greens" (2:40)
The Native Yinzer - "The Hip Strip" (2:33)
Review: The fourth edition in Original Gravity's Down In The Basement series, which gathers instrumental soul and swing cuts onto worthy 7" slabs, resounding the fervent 1960s decadal gap in which mod reigned supreme. With juleps flowing and kneecaps knocking, Abramo & Nestor bring newfangled electric pianistic swing with 'Dig It!', while a twinned "hit it!" injunction is heard from Floyd James & The GTs on the reissued 'Work That Thang'; James' voice is tubed and speed-delayed to terrific effect, achieving a sprung intonation. Curtis Baker brassifies the bonanza with the lively 'Fried Fish 'n' Collard Greens', while The Native Yinzer's exiting excitation 'The Hip Strip' quilts our ears with a mnemic, down-feathery Hammond-breaks bit.
Review: This 7" reissue of 'I'm So Proud' by Aswad and The Natural Band's 'There Was A Time' delivers a funk-filled gem originally released in 1972. Aswad's 'I'm So Proud' leads with a soulful blend of funk and soul, anchored by a strong vocal performance and tight rhythm section. On the flip, The Natural Band's 'There Was A Time' is a dynamic instrumental jam that showcases tight grooves and infectious rhythms, making it an essential track for any funk enthusiast. Previously fetching high prices on the second-hand market, this reissue is a great opportunity to experience these classic tracks without breaking the bank.
Review: The third volume of this series delivers an irresistible blend of funk and 60s-inspired grooves. Side-1 kicks off with a surf-rock-infused funk jam packed with energy and retro vibes. Following that, a swinging 60s sound that combining catchy rhythms and pop sensibilities keeps the momentum going. Side-2 shifts gears a groove-heavy track led by a soulful organ that oozes vintage charm. Closing the collection, there is a gem that features smooth, funk-driven melodies, topped off by a standout sax solo and a subtle British flair. This compilation offers a vibrant mix of styles, perfect for fans of classic funk with a modern twist.
Review: 'Funky Soul' - a 1970 single from New Orleans band David Batise & The Gladiators - rose to prominence in the 1990s thanks to its inclusion on several high-profile funk compilations, before finding further success thanks to a Breakestra cover in the early 2000s. Ahead of a new collection of unheard cuts from the southern funk band, Family Groove records has decided to reissue it. In it's A-side 'Part 1' form, the track is a killer instrumental funk workout rich in razor-sharp guitar licks, weighty bass, crunchy drum breaks and hazy horns (the arrangement of which was provided by Isaac Hayes). Arguably even more frantic and energetic is the flipside 'Part 2' take, whose call-and-response vocals were a familiar feature of the band's popular live shows.
Review: It was Dave Godin including this lush bit of aching Louisiana deep soul on the first Deep Soul Treasures CD that renewed interest in it. Now, original copies are pricey and hard to find and last year a nice cover version was served up by Lady Blackbird. The good folk at Beat Goes Public aka BGP have decide to reissue the original. It's an impossible to ignore track laden with heartbreak. On the flip side is another bluesy soul gem in the form of 'Hummin' A Sad Song.'
Review: The Moiss Music label seems to like to drop their EPs two at a time. They did it in February and they're doing it again in May. This eighth outing collects four more lively disco cuts, each with their own subtle influences. Berobreo's 'White Rabbit' for instance has funky undertones with loopy guitar riffs and nice breaks. The Magic Track's 'Jamming With Mom' meanwhile is more sensuous and deep, with late-night synth work and seductive vocals. Oldchap's 'I Want To Show You' has an expressive soul vocal with more low-slung grooves and Alexny's 'Not Bad' then gets quick, clipped and loopy for its lip-pouting disco thrills.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This) (Flying Fish dub) (2:57)
Review: Here's a cover which can't fail to please a huge crowd, as Betty Black takes on Eurythmics' eternal 'Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)'. Black has been hitting her stride as a modern day soul diva after moving on from her accomplished roots voicing some iconic UK garage tunes, and her cover of 'Cry Me A River' is no joke either. Backed up by The Family Fortune and bringing an undeniable 60s sass to her performance, she makes the track her own. As well as the full vocal version on the A-side, the B-side has the slightly edited, dubbed out 'Work Out' version for when you want to work up a sweat.
Review: A bold fusion of Afrobeat, funk and jazz on the debut LP from Blvck Spvde & The Cosmos, marking an exciting addition to Mello Music Group's catalogue. The album is steeped in legacy, with powerful rhythms and expansive arrangements, with tracks like 'Doom' revealing an intense, layered sound, while 'What You Won't Do' reinterprets a classic with introspective depth. All in all, there's a balance of forward-thinking jazz with hints of raw, soulful energy as the ten-piece ensemble capture the feel of St. Louis' live scene and a spirit that's truly timeless.
Review: German-Ghanaian group the Polyversal Souls have previously collaborated with a number of bands and solo artists from West Africa, so this hook-up with Northern Ghanaian outfit the Bolga All Stars - a collective made up of leading local kologo and frafra-gospel singers and musicians - should not come as much of a surprise. Separated into two parts for the seven-inch release, the track blends the Polyversal Souls' lolloping, late '60s style Afro-funk grooves - complete with fuzzy, period style production - and sharp horn section with glistening guitars, snaking solos and fine vocals from the Bolga All Stars. It's one of the Polyversal Souls' finest releases yet, and that's saying something.
Review: The relentless Athens Of The North is having a busy month even by its own high standards. February alone has at least three new 45rpms dropping and this might be the best: Homegrown Syndrome were a band that ended up in LA but giggled all round Memphis. Some members had played with an earlier band but they all came good on these previously unleashed tunes that have been found in the attic of Jerry Jones. 'Got The Love' is a chunky funky stepper with swirling synths and disco energy. 'Party Vibes' then takes off once more on hip swig claps, big arching chords and strident drums.
James Brown - "Funky Men" (Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:13)
The JB's - "Just Wanna Make You Dance" (feat Maxxi - Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:48)
Review: Dimitri From Paris returns with a fresh installment of his celebrated DFP Vaults series, highlighting deep cuts that reinforce his status as a top-tier remixer, DJ, and a true connoisseur of dance music's hidden gems. This release holds particular significance for Dimitri, as it pays homage to the legendary James Brown, a figure whose influence in music is beyond measure. The release features Dimitri's 'Special Version' of 'Funky Men,' a track from James Brown's Soul Syndrome. Originally overlooked by Dimitri in 1981, it now shines with a unique disco beat that he's reimagined using both vintage and modern editing techniques. The track has already proven its power on the dance floor. On the flip side, Dimitri revisits 'Just Wanna Make You Dance' by The J.B.'s, featuring Maxxi. This rare disco track, with its Caribbean flair, gets Dimitri's expert touch, enhancing its dancefloor appeal. DFP Vaults, the sister label to Le-Edits Records, presents this release with meticulous attention to detail, featuring state-of-the-art mastering and vintage-inspired packaging.
Review: The Brazil 45 series is pure gold for lovers of Latin sounds across the funk, jazz and soul spectrum. Each one sells out fats but usually emcees back around, as is the case with this 18th edition. It features Ely Camargo's 'Taieiras' from his Ely's 1972 album Cantos Da Minha Gente and is a lively folk-inspired track sampled famously by DJ Yoda in 2012. Despite recording 12 albums, Ely remains an enigmatic figure whose music is all we have to feed off. On the flip side, Rio sibling trio Trio Esperanca shine with their psychedelic gem from their 1971 self-titled album. Known for their stunning harmonies, the group released seven albums between 1963 and 1975 but this is one of their finest moments.
Review: Discodelic comes correct again with a new 7" that features a pair of rather lesser-known and brilliantly obscure Latin psych-rock gems. Conjunto Raza' 'African Dream' is all crackly and immediately nostalgic because of it, with noodle acoustic guitar sounds making way for a more upbeat and driving 60s garage rock sound but all in loveable lo-fi. Add in a red-hot vocal and you have a flame cut full of funk. On the reverse, The Scepters 'Message' is another well-aged jam that brings rawness and emotion in equal measure.
Review: The Scepters, formed in 1967 in Paraiso by guitarist Celso Spencer, were a popular Panamanian band known for their energetic performances across military bases and high school dances in the Canal Zone. Alongside Lionel Best and Jose James, they covered Top 40 hits and iconic rock bands like Santana and Jimi Hendrix. They released two 45s, including 'Message,' which debuted at Panama's first National Soul Music Festival in 1971 and features next here to a jam from Conjunto Raza, another project led by Agustin Leiro, this one with rotating musicians. They released a single 45 on Onda Nueva in the mid-70s and it blends Zonian and Panamanian talent with aplomb.
The Poindexter Brothers - "What I Did In The Streets (I Should Have Done At Home)" (3:17)
Review: Soul Junction's latest release brings together two sought-after heavy soul cuts from the studio of the Poindexter Brothers: their own 1969 heater "What I Did In The Street (I Should Have Done At Home)" - a sweet, Vibraphone-sporting slab of rasping, full-throated, horn-heavy sixties soul just dripping with emotion - and a killer cut they produced a year earlier for singer Vivian Copeland. You'll find that song, "Chaos In My Heart", on the A-side. Originally released on Bell, it's an attractive and additive mid-tempo number in which Copeland's fine vocals come supported by low-register horns, shuffling soul grooves and some suitably heavenly backing vocals.
Johnny King & Fatback Band - "Keep On Brother Keep On" (2:05)
Review: Bill Curtis' Fatback Band is known around the world for its soul and disco hits but their roots actually lay in funk. They were one of the most impressive outfits around in that particular genre and so they have, for those who are willing to dig deep enough, plenty of rare funk gems to call upon from their earliest days. Here we get a couple of them with 'Dance Girl' - the last tune they released in 1974 before signing to Event/Spring. It was a real classic at block parties back in the day and on the flip is a tune that will cost you over L1000 if you can find an original, namely 'Keep On Brother Keep On' - the group's second single on Curtis BC Projects II label.
The Dave Hamilton Band - "Who" (unreleased version) (3:06)
Review: Kent Records continue their mission to reissue a string of perhaps-released, perhaps-not music from the untapped vaults of Northern soul. 'Who' might just be the next standard for the diggers' genre; performed on vocals by obscure soul-feeder Jackie Dee, the track is a lo-fi yet ultimately danceable jam, dealing with the disbelief of it being you, as opposed to anyone else. An unreleased version of the song by The Dave Hamilton band on the B-side amps up the funk, brightening up the bass and rhythm guitar elements for a breezier take on things.
Review: DJ DSK has released some heavyweight seven-inch singles over the years, with his 2016 45 "Laminate" - an original slab of funk made in cahoots with the previously unheralded "Lost Soul Collective". Here he gathers together the band once more for a follow-up four years in the making. "Lost Soul" is a two-part affair in keeping with the funk tradition. The A-side is an infectious vocal number that sits somewhere between Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings and the more psychedelic flavour associated with turn-of-the-70s San Francisco soul. As you'd expect, the flipside "Part 2" version strips out most of the vocals to allow the band's warm and heady instrumentation room to breathe.
Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & The Trinity - "Jeannine" (2:12)
Brian Auger & The Trinity - "In & Out" (2:59)
Review: BDQ's next limited 7" is a superb three-way collab between Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & The Trinity. Their long-lost version of classic dancer 'Jeannine' is powered by wandering basslines and swinging Hammond Organ chords that bring warmth to the free-flowing jazz vocals up top. It has never before been on 45rpm and has been all but unknown for the last 50 years but was recently rediscovered while the label head was looking for something else for the recent 'Auger Incorporated' compilation on Soul Bank Music. On the flip is a mod jazz dancer who is just as hip and ready to make an impact.
The Family Daptone - "Hey Brother (Do Unto Others)" (3:52)
Soul Fugue - "The 100 Knights Orchestra" (4:58)
Review: Soul and funk heads won't want to miss this very special seven-inch from the Daptone Records crew, and not just because it's the label's 100th "45". The A-side features an all-star '60s soul cover of the Frightnrs rock-steady cut featuring vocal contributions from Saun and Starr, James Hunter, Lee Fields, Naomi Shelton, Duke Amayo, the Frightnrs and two legends who are no longer with us: Charles Bradley and Sharon Jones. It's a one-off that won't be repeated for obvious reasons, but more importantly it's very, very good. Over on the flip main man Bosco Mann takes charge, conducting and producing "two opposing armies" of woodwind and horn players from the label's expansive musical roster. As you'd expect, it's something of an epic.
Review: G. D. & The Big J's 'Movin' On' is a primo funk, disco and boogie melange that has been heating up global dance floors ever since it was first released in 1980. It is a much sought-after jam which, if you can even find an original copy, will cost you upwards of three figures. 'Movie On' is seamless and smooth, a brilliant and vibrant mix of busy guitar riffs, and claps and upbeat drums that come with a lively vocal that says to the heavens with effortless soul. It sounds like basically the same tune is included on both sides you so never have to worry about this one wearing out - which it could well do given how often you will be playing it.
Review: Dancin' The Mambo (The Reflex Revision) grooves with infectious disco energy, seamlessly blending Chic-esque rhythms with early piano house vibes. The Reflex's revision injects new life into this 1980 gem, maintaining its French flair while adding modern twists. With its pulsating basslines and irresistible beats, this track is a testament to the timeless allure of disco music. Perfect for igniting dancefloors, its vibrant energy captures the essence of a bygone era while feeling fresh and exciting for contemporary audiences. Prepare to be transported to a world where disco reigns supreme and every beat compels you to move.
Review: Mr Bongo's authoritative Brazilian 7" series continues apace with this delightful gem, featuring the magical talents of Guto on the A-side and Tony Nunes on the flip. Guto's 'Transito Livre' is a sweet slice of MPB (musica popular brasileira) which switches time signatures with flair from verse to chorus. Tony Nunes turns the heat up with 'Por Favor', a 1973 cut which sounds like it could jump right off the turntable with its fiery, funky urgency. Another essential purchase for all those who love hidden nuggets from Brazil's abundant musical history.
The Headhunters - "God Make Me Funky" (extended Breaks Special edition) (3:57)
The Counts - "Motor City" (extended Breaks Special edition) (4:18)
Review: This new hand-numbered 7" from Breaks & Beats is a sample hunter's delight. Two timeless funk gems with super deep vibes and lush vocals that have been pillaged by hip-hop and R&B artists many times over the years. On the a-side is a special extended Breaks Special edition edit of The Headhunters - 'God Make Me Funky' with its super tight drumming, languid bass funk and epic sense of late-night cool. On the reverse is another special extended Breaks Special edition edit, this time of The Counts's playful and funk gem 'Motor City' with its big fills and steamy sax lines.
Review: Teddy Powell and Zee Desmondes are The Jack Moves, a contemporary disco and hip hop outfit who here link with unknown newbies The People Of Newark and Larry Hamm for this tidy new 7" on Star Creature. 'Horror Games' has a squelchy synth bass line that carries the loose drum work and bustling methane of background vocals and found sounds. A lead singer takes charge up top as various chatting crowds play out in the background. It's a busy tune that also comes as an instrumental for those who prefer the focus to be on the well crafted drums and bass.
Review: Americans Hank Jacobs and Don Malone cooked up a bona fide political soul anthem when they crafted 'The World Needs Changin' back in 1970. It is now hard to find so naturally these days it fetches a very handsome fee on second hand markets so has rightly been reissued here by BGP. The a-side is a tune that cuts deep, with pained vocals over a simple but devastating soul rhythm. On the flip is another gem in the form of 'Getting On Down' making this a crucial cut.
Chuck Davis Orchestra - "Spirit Of Sunshine" (6:23)
Review: Westend brings more of that glorious disco goodness that they have been so well known and loved for over such a long period of time. This one is a split that kicks off with Jake's 'You Are the Star.' It's propelled by neat and tidy bass guitar riffs with more decorative melodies and riffs up top. The drums have an irresistible sense of slide to them and the vocal is of course the icing on the cake. Chuck Davis Orchestra steps up in the flip with more lush and classy disco complete with effervescent string stabs and more funky bass. 'Spirit Of Sunshine' manages to bottle up just that and douse you in it from start to finish.
Review: There is some class edit and mash up business going on here with the latest one from the Disco Bits crew. The 45 takes the form of of classic cuts reworked with an all new and contemporary edge with the dancefloor very much in mind. First up, a Patti Job classic gets taken apart and rebuilt with new vocals and a more stepping beat. The Chopper's 'People Hold On' is a more smoochy sound with classic vocal refrains singing out and twanging guitar riffs powering along a groove that is suited for everything from weddings to late night shenanigans.
Review: This delightful 7" features a collaboration between two Star Creature veterans from Northern and Southern California who deliver a raw, uncut boogie track. The wonderful 'Girl Ur Freaky' is both breezy and laidback but irritably dance. The vocal harmonies are heart-melting, the wispy synths bring cosmic cool and the drums and squelchy bass sit together perfectly. The vocal version really is where it's at with this one but if you want it more subtle then the flip-side instrumental is the one for you.
Review: Discodelic and Groovie Records unveil a pair of rare 1970s Panamanian gems here with forgotten tracks from The Meditators, and Los Misticos. Originally recorded for radio and left in storage, these Latin psych funk bombs capture the underground spirit of Panama's vibrant music scene from more than 50 years ago. Licensed through Tamayo Records, these songs have been beautifully mastered and now the long-lost recordings, which barely made it to vinyl the first time around, become available for all who are keen to drop the heat and learn about Panama's hidden musical treasures at the same time.
Review: These two rare 1970s Panamanian gems are long-forgotten tracks from The Meditators and Los Misticos that now get pressed up to a very colourful 7", though we also have a plain black version. These Latin psych-funk recordings were created for radio but were stored away for many years and now listening back they offer a glimpse into the vibrant, underground scene of Panama. Beautifully remastered and licensed through Tamayo Records, these rediscovered songs are now available after originally being pressed in extremely limited quantities. These tracks provide a unique chance for listeners to experience Panama's hidden musical treasures while adding some heat to any collection.
M Hawk - "Beat Me Till I'm Blue" (No Horns version) (2:41)
The Mohawks - "Beat Me Till I'm Blue" (Horns version) (2:42)
Review: 'Beat Me Till I'm Blue' is a wonderfully funky classic by The Mohawks presented under the M Hawk alias, the Hawk in question being none other than KPM Music Library overlord Alan Hawkshaw, who wrote the themes from everything from Grange Hill to Countdown. It was a real cornerstone of the late-1960s library and soul-infused grooves of the sort that diggers still fawn over today, and sample fiends still search out. The track delivers Hawkshaw's distinctively driving Hammond organ riffs, tight drum breaks and irresistible rhythms, all of which have made it a favourite among DJs for decades. Two versions are served up here, one with the iconic horns and one with them stripped away, and both offer plenty of energy. .
Grab The Moment (instrumental Fonkymoog version) (5:21)
Review: Tracey Hamlin's voice brings a richness and vitality to this collaboration with MasterFonk, riding atop an arrangement that radiates warmth and precision. Layers of rhythmic guitar, bold brass flourishes, and a commanding bassline work together to create a dynamic yet effortless groove. The instrumental cut offers a different perspective, stripping away vocals to highlight the interplay between melody and rhythm. It's a track that bridges the past and present of funk and disco, showcasing both genres' enduring power to move bodies and lift spirits.
Review: The University Of California Santa Cruz Chamber Singers is a group from the 70s headed up by Bob Masters that released two cult albums A Birthday Celebration and Voices. Their lush, lavish, soul-enriching sound is a harmonious balm that here on the newly reissued 'Children Of Bahia' gets paired with some Latin-tinged jazz sounds, shuffling samba rhythms, busy Rhodes keys work and plenty of organic percussive layers thanks to Randy Masters and Solar Plexus. 'Torremolinos (Windmills)' is an equally spiritual sound with more prominent flutes and dancing piano chords all energising every fibre of your being.
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