Joe Bataan - "Latin Soul Square Dance" (alternate version) (5:24)
Joe Bataan - "(Goodbye Adios) Roberto Clemente" (4:19)
Eddie Lebron - "My Vows To You" (feat Little David) (2:31)
Eddie Lebron - "Sigue Tu Vida" (3:42)
The Edwards Generation - "Someone Like You" (2:59)
The Edwards Generation - "School Is In" (2:57)
One Sy Mack - "Never Listen To Your Heart" (2:39)
One Sy Mack - "A Part Of A Fool" (3:00)
Review: Previously unreleased, Joe Bataan (real name Bataan Nitollano) recorded the bulk of the material making up Drug Story in 1972. This new, highly limited box set hears seven revered, rarely-heard gems of Latin jazz, deep soul, raucous boogaloo, and heavy salsa by the legend, most of which were largely salvaged from his very own self-run Ghetto Records vaults. Drug Story was inspired by true events, and hears Bataan croon graciously over themes of destitution, lost family members and friends, and addiction. One of three definitive reissues of Bataan's greatest works, licensed from Bataan himself, with his oversight and input into a 15 page oversized book by Pablo Yglesia,s that details Bataan's larger-than-imagination life and his little Latin label that could.
Review: Candido Y Su Movimiento's cult favourite album Palos De Fuego album is a rhythmic journey through the vibrant landscapes of Afro-Cuban jazz and Latin music that was first released in the 1970s. It superbly showcases the virtuosity of Candido Camero, a percussion maestro often hailed as the "Father of Modern Conga Drumming" as the album pulsates with infectious beats, intricate rhythms, and soulful melodies, all of which embody the essence of Afro-Cuban traditions while embracing contemporary influences. As a testament to Candido's enduring impact on the genre, Palos De Fuego stands tall and is a timeless exploration of percussive brilliance that continues to captivate and inspire Latin jazz lovers worldwide.
(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below, We're All Going To Go (6:05)
People Get Ready (4:22)
Getting Over (2:14)
I'll Bet You/California Dreamin' (3:44)
Popcorn/Oye Como Va (5:48)
I Love You For All Seasons (3:05)
East Of Java (2:08)
Walk On By (2:41)
Review: In 1971, in the midst of America's conflict in Vietnam, the US army held a 'battle of the bands' contest and showcased the two winning bands in a promotional album. East Of Underground, the gritty runner-up, managed to capture the spirit of America with their sweet-soul covers of Sly Stone, Curtis Mayfield and Funkadelic. The quality of the recording is superior, as is the musicianship: the falsetto harmonies, the gritty guitar, and the devouring drums...
Review: Paul Ngozi's 99% Confusion represents a powerful chapter in the history of Zamrock, a vibrant music scene that emerged in 1970s Zambia. This late-period hard rock and proto-punk album, featuring drummer Chrissy Zebby Tembo, shows Ngozi's enduring influence in the Zamrock movement. The LP comes with an oversized eight-page booklet filled with rare photographs, a detailed discography, and insightful annotations, providing a deeper understanding of Ngozi's musical journey. Zamrock itself was a unique fusion, blending fuzz-driven psychedelia, raw garage rock, and energetic funk with traditional African rhythms. This distinctive sound, cultivated by bands like Musi O Tunya, Amanaz, and Ngozi Family, stood apart from anything else on the African continent. 99% Confusion, released under license from Paul Nyirongo's estate, is part of Now-Again's ongoing effort to preserve and reissue these vital records. This album continues to showcase Ngozi's pivotal role in shaping the Zamrock legacy.
Review: Released in 1977, this Nigerian rock album remains a hidden gem, rediscovered by a new generation thanks to recent reissues. Produced by Odion Iruoje, the album features a group of college students whose music captures the vibrant, post-civil war Nigerian rock scene. With a sound that blends Western rock influences like The Beatles, Buffalo Springfield and early Genesis with a distinct African touch, the album is a joyful yet melancholic exploration of love and harmony. Tracks like 'Love', 'Be Nice to the People' and 'Mary Enne' showcase the band's signature blend of fuzz guitar and heartfelt vocals. The music resonates with the exuberance of other African bands like Blo and Witch, yet it stands out with its heavy fuzz guitar and English vocals, steering clear of political or social activism in favor of pure, emotional expression. This album, recorded in Kenya, captures a moment in history when African rock was evolving, bridging cultures and sounds. It's a timeless piece, equally nostalgic, fresh and perfect entry point into African psychedelia for new listeners and a rewarding revisit for those already familiar with the genre.
Soul Superiors - "Trust In Me Baby" (feat Sherman Willis)
Outback - "Strangers In Our Homeland"
The Montecarlos - "If You Leave"
Words Of Wisdom - "You Made Me Everything"
Soul Charges - "My Heart Beats For You"
The Power Of Attorney - "I'm Just Your Clown"
James Reese - "Throwing Stones" (Kenny Dope main mix)
Richard Marks - "I'm With You Love"
Bonnie Floyd - "You're My Everything"
The Ledgends - "A Fool For You"
Apple & The Three Oranges - "Moonlight"
Review: Loving On The Flip Side compiles overlooked ballads from the flip sides of funk 45s in the Now-Again and Truth and Soul vaults, all presented in the same format as the Soul Cal anthology. This collection showcases incredible music that pairs heavy funk with sweet soul to create a sound the label calls "sweet funk." The journey began nearly a decade ago with the discovery of the Darling Dears and Funky Heavy's unique two-sided single which sparked a search that led to their full inclusion in this anthology. The process unearthed other soulful gems and now culminates in an essential exploration of black American creativity and musical innovation.
Leon Mitchison & The Eastex Freeway Band - "Love Is" (Full version) (4:18)
Luther Davis Group - "To Be Free" (3:46)
Ellis & Cephas - "I'm Gonna Miss You Girl" (3:53)
Clifford Nyren - "Keep Running Away" (5:16)
Mixed Feelings - "Sha-La-La" (5:25)
C Henry Woods - "The Stranger" (3:01)
Freedom Express - "Get Down" (3:28)
Review: Soul Cal is a deep dive into America's independent 70s soul scene, expertly curated by Eothen 'Egon' Alapatt. This compilation is a prime blend of the retro-utopian vision, where small-town record stores and garages across the U.S. might have been hiding virtuosic funk and soul outfits. The bittersweet joy of these previously overlooked musicians finally getting recognition is palpable, and the music itself is an absolute thrill. Songs like Luther Davis' 'You Can Be A Star' and Pure Essence's 'Wake Up,' the album is an impressive variety of styles, from heartfelt ballads to hard-hitting funk grooves. Anubis' 'Ecology' and Mixed Feelings' 'Sha-La-La' add a dash of social consciousness, while Leon Mitchison & The Eastex Freeway Band's 'Love Is' brings smooth sophistication. Mastered by Dave Cooley and team, the sound quality is stellar, making these hidden gems shine. Soul Cal is not just a tribute but a rediscovery, offering a bittersweet glimpse into an era of soul music often overshadowed by its mainstream counterparts.
Stephen David Heitkotter - "I Don't Mind" (part 1) (5:13)
Christopher - "In Your Time" (5:25)
Kourosh - "Dar Enteha" (4:10)
Jb Green & Band - "Time" (5:55)
Review: US label Now Again follows up the success of its recent Forge Your Own Chains compilation with another, and this time one that has never before be available on vinyl like this. It features a fine selection of small run private presses that are all incredibly hard to find or long out of print. The bands behind the music range from legends of the krautrock scene to Turkish teenagers to Icelandic prog-rock outfits, prison funk ensembles and even the uncle of E-40. It's real, raw and full of plenty of visceral funk thrills made between 1970 and 1975 but suitable for all occasions.
Review: This timely reissue of Zamrock's Afro-prog-psychedelic masterpiece makes its debut on vibrant yellow vinyl. WITCH was a group influenced by James Brown, the Stones, and Deep Purple and they dominated 70s Zamrock stages in their heyday. Their musical journey spanned only five years and culminated in the fifth and final rock album, which predated a split and a new disco venture in Zimbabwe. The record fuses traditional Zambian rhythms and folk melodies with progressive rock and, somewhat echoing Lukombo Vibes, it embodies the Osibas' "afro-rock" style. This release encapsulates WITCH's evolution and influence and gives a vivid glimpse into the era's musical fusion and cultural resonance.
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