Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: With 'breaking' making its debut in the 2024 Paris Olympics, it seems an apt time to go back to where it all began and showcase some of the music that first made break-dancers move in the early years of hip-hop culture. Soul Jazz Records clearly agrees, hence this two-disc retrospective of early 'breaker' favourites curated by Arthur Baker - a man who's productions and remixes soundtracked many dancefloor battles in the early 80s. It's a suitably strong selection all told, with dusty funk, soul and funk-rock favourites (Johnny Bristol, James Brown, The Jimmy Castor Bunch, Spanky Wilson) being joined by disco-funk jams (Herman Kelly and Life), extra-percussive workouts (Manu Dibango, Mongo Santamaria, Candido) and a smattering of key Baker productions (Afrika Bambaata and Soul Sonic Force's 'Planet Rock' and his own infectious 'Breakers Revenge').

Review: In truth, not all DJs are genuine "tastemakers", but Lefto most certainly is. Like the similarly minded - if far older and more experienced - Gilles Peterson, Lefto gets as much pleasure from introducing people to new and obscure music, as he does from rocking clubs. It's for that reason The Beauty Is Inside, a terrific, lightly blended mix of eclectic, far-sighted sounds hand-picked by the Belgian, is such essential listening. It naturally contains some slept-on tackle from the past - see the cuts by Ethiopian singer Alemayeu Eshete and South African artist Patience Africa - but even more killer contemporary fare, with highlights including the contributions of Qur'an Shaheed, Elisa Bee, fellow Belgians abrahamblue and contemporary jazz hero Makaya McCraven.

Review: Part 2 of this exciting soundtrack brings an array of music that complements the series' epic conclusion. Headlined by Ashnikko's electrifying anthem 'Paint The Town Blue', this collection includes contributions from a diverse lineup of artists such as Stray Kids, Young Miko, Tom Morello, d4vd, Twenty One Pilots, Marcus King, King Princess and more. The album strikes a perfect balance between high-energy tracks and more introspective tunes, enhancing the emotional depth of the show and its beloved characters. Following the success of the first soundtrack, this edition continues to elevate Arcane's storytelling, adding even more layers to its vivid world. Notable contributions also come from Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park and Imagine Dragons, further enriching the listening experience. With its dynamic range of sounds, the Arcane Season 2 soundtrack is a powerful companion to the series, deepening the viewer's connection to the world and characters.