Review: Melbourne's funk pioneers The Bamboos return with a fresh 7" Christmas EPian idea long held by bandleader Lance Ferguson. After their successful 'This Is How You Do It' album and sold-out Jazz Cafe shows, the group offers a festive twist with this limited-edition vinyl, complete in vibrant and custom knitted-sleeve. The A-side, 'Wrapt In A Beau,' sees Kylie Auldist delivering soulful, warm vocals in signature Bamboos style. On the B-side, 'The Bells Of Holly Hill' brings a lush, breakbeat-driven instrumental with sleigh bells, capturing the unique essence of an Australian Christmas.
Review: The BDQ duo were in the studio 25 years ago working on these tracks but never quite finished them due to life changes like marriage and kids. Recently, while revisiting old tapes, they discovered a lost tape and decided to give it another listen. They liked what they heard and after a bit of effort to transfer the tracks, they now feel the time has come for a vinyl release. Side 1 features their version of Timebox's 'Beggin'' with vocals by Sarah Orpen and Bryn Barklam laying down some killer Hammond sounds. Side 2 presents their take on the Mirettes' 'Take Me For a Little While' with more stellar vocals from Sarah.
Review: Get your hips and heart around this bit of L.A. boogie by the elusive Ben White and you cannot help but feel better. It is a highly sought-after rarity that disco collectors have been fawning over since forever. It was originally reissued as a 45 by the great Athens of the North and now comes this 7" version which was sourced from Andy Noble, who has often helped the label out before. It features two sides of exceptional modern soul and boogie that blend rhythm and grove in magical ways that are never going to age. 'I See A World' has lovely and tender falsetto vocals and 'Give Me Love (Always)' is more of a party starter.
Review: Having played a slew of inimitable and unforgettable television comedy characters over the past decade or so, from Toast of London's Stephen Toast to Douglas Reynholm in The IT Crowd, Dixon Bainbridge in The Mighty Boosh and Todd Rivers in Garth Marenghi's Darkplace, you could be forgiven for expecting Matt Berry to use songwriting and music as another form of hilarious release. That's definitely not the case. There's plenty of release on I Gotta Limit, but this is anything other than satire. The first new music to come from Berry's 2025 album, Heard Noises, the two tracks here are pure joy, authentic and genuinely impressive on a technical level. Exchanging lines in a duet with Kitty Liv for the titular number, the vibe is part Northern Soul, part psych rock, and pretty much all completely captivating.
Review: If you like your jazz mystical and spaced out then you're on the right page with this one. The Blackhole label returns with a sixth self-titled offering that is buy on sight. 'More Love Songs' has whimsical leads disappearing off into the cosmic ether over mic jazz-funk drums with some breezy vocals finishing it in style. 'Searching The Circle' then take off on another carefree and breezy groove with far-sighted melodies and gorgeous vocal harmonies that melt you to your core. Beautiful stuff.
Review: Matasuna Records, based in Berlin, kick off their 2025 with a ladling of fresh soul soma food, this time by Barca's finest one-girl band The Blaxound (Marta Roman), in collaboration with singer John Vermont. Building on irreverent, vintage 60s pop from Spain, whose sound is categorically fiendish to replicate, the two artists have nonetheless managed a close hewing here. 'No Es Por Ti' showcases Vermont's throaty singing, lyrically playing out the eternally relatable breakup trope of "it's not you, it's me." Then 'Qu Ms Te Da?' follows with an affectingly syncopal rhythm, with a tightened snare played only on the 4, heightening the erotic tensity of the scene, driven by shuffling hats alone, whilst the artists' respective cools are kept.
Review: Bloco & Soul Essentials are back with their smooth, feel-good vibes with their 7" There For You. Side-1 features the title track, a joyful slice of soul with a fantastic horn section and classy vocals. It captures a warm, 70s mood with smooth strings and an overall laid-back groove that's perfect for fans of classic soul sounds. On Side-2, 'Shady Lady' offers a slower, funkier groove. The track's funky bassline and gentle piano keys create a relaxed, sultry atmosphere, while the rich blend of guitar and smooth vocals tie everything together beautifully. There For You is an essential pick for anyone who enjoys soul music with a touch of Japanese funk and jazz influences, delivering timeless grooves with a modern edge.
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.
Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me) (instrumental) (3:24)
Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me) (feat Mel Hayes - vocal) (4:10)
Review: The Boogie Man Orchestra's 'Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me)' is a hidden gem in the soulful disco world but it won't stay that way now it is getting this new reissue. It's one of those jams with an impossibly smooth, seductive groove that embodies the essence of 70s funk and soul. The lush arrangements are accompanied by silky vocals and tight instrumentation to make for a perfect balance of upbeat energy and romantic charm. Add in the rich brass sections and driving bassline and you have a perfect example of the orchestral disco sound that we all still love so much.
Review: For the first time on green vinyl, cinematic funk and r&b singer Boz Scaggs gives us the Lowdown. One of the breakthrough hits from his 1976 album Silk Degrees, Scaggs' stylised, night-flighty sound is put on full blast here. Co-written by Scaggs and keyboardist David Paich (Toto), the record's unburdened and frolicking feel acts to disguise its subject matter: Scaggs' intention is double-sided, with the lyrics warning the listener about an unreliable, buttery figure, whose romantic trickery warrants an urgent briefing (hence "lowdown"). A twist arrives at the point of the chorus, when we realise that said bullshit artist might just be Boz himself. Well, we can't quite believe it. Are all us romantics loving a lie, to some extent?
Review: Brother II was an exceptional synth-boogie band in the early 1980s that were formed by, ahem, brothers J. and M. Soso. Their track 'You Was Born' stands as a real gem of of the era that cooly embodies the essence of boogie funk when synths defined the musical landscape. The track's infectious bassline is effortlessly grooving and paired with an unshakeable rhythm and a rich, dominant synth-driven vibe. As a foundational sound of the genre back then, 'You Was Born' is a rather overlooked gem.
Review: LRK Records has put together a special limited edition 45rpm by Bella Brown & The Jealous Lovers. Due to high demand, the popular 'Soul Clap' (Radio Edit) from their album is now available on vinyl and this energetic version condenses the original into a dance floor-ready anthem with funky Bohannon rhythms and James Brown-inspired grooves which has already received extensive airplay. Additionally, the festive track 'Always Christmas Eve' comes on the A-side of this special grey coloured vinyl.
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: Laurence "Larry" Brown only saw two singles to his name despite his boundless talents as a producer, instrumentalist and singer, and this record from 1979 is one of them. To break training is to flout the rules of the game - this is often a necessary ritual if one is to see through one's own personal vision quest in life's existential rite-of-passages, such as love and individuation. "I've been walking the line, controlling the line... I ain't been doin' what's right, baby... in the beginning, I'd give up everything for the sake of winning..." such are the musings of a man newly in love.
Review: Serious deep house heads take note, this is a superb new EP that instantly fits in with your favourite classics by the likes of Moodymann and Theo Parrish. It comes from Dean Bryce, one of London's best-kept secrets, and he delivers his signature touch on this latest release for Extra Soul Perception. Known as the founder of Technicolour Records-home to early releases from Peggy Gou, Actress, and the breakout Barry Can't Swim-Dean has a reputation that speaks for itself. This record sees him tapping into his re-edit collection to bring us three timeless tracks. The much-loved 'H.E.R.' makes a triumphant return next to two gems 'TEAZE' and 'Winner' on the flip side. Crucial.
Review: Erin Buku's standout track 'See You Shine' gets a special remix treatment from Soundway Records' affiliate SAI GALAXY, now available as a limited edition 12". A perfect fusion of styles, this remix infuses the original's soulful charm with SAI GALAXY's vibrant production flair. Fans of Lord Echo, Fat Freddy's Drop and Masters At Work will feel right at home with this.
Review: Bull & the Matadors, hailing from East St. Louis, brought their soulful energy to the Toddlin' Town label in 1968, joining forces with the iconic Leaner family. Inspired by Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In and its courtroom sketch craze, they released the groovy r&b hit 'The Funky Judge,' crafted by Andre Williams and Leo Hutton. Now, their unreleased sequel 'Where Did The Judge Go' finally sees the light, rescued from obscurity for eager fans on provided on the flipside.
Review: The Numero Group's reissue of Bump & The Soul Stompers' 'I Can Remember' is a potent soul gem from 1970. Recorded at the prestigious Damon Studios in Kansas City, this single captures the essence of the city's classic-era soul scene, spearheaded by the charismatic Jerald "Bump" Scott. 'I Can Remember' is a vibrant, jubilant track that ignites with its energetic horns, echoing the lively spirit of the era. The accompanying song on Side-2, 'Standing On The Outside', slows things down with a smooth r&b vibe, perfectly balancing the upbeat nature of the flip side. The single's blend of infectious rhythm and soulful depth makes this a very desirable 45 to have.
Review: Kansas City's soul scene wasn't built around a famous label or studio, but on the tireless work of America's Best Attractions, a booking agency run by Allen Bell. Bell wasn't just a booking agentihe was the lifeblood of the local music circuit, keeping acts like Bump & the Soul Stompers on the road, paid, and gig-ready. Led by Jerald "Bump" Scott, the group spent years in the grind without needing to set foot in a studio. But when they did, they chose Damon Studios, home to some of the best recording gear in the regionithanks to its owner, Victor Damon, the man who invented the spring reverb. Their first single, "I Can Remember", echoes the smooth finesse of The Delfonics' "Do You Remember," before Bump & the Soul Stompers spin the melody in their own direction. On the flip side, "Standing On The Outside" slows things down, making it an irresistible lowrider groove. It's a soul story that almost never saw the light of day, but now it's hereitwo tracks that pay homage to a hidden chapter of Kansas City's rich musical history.
I Know You Got Soul (Mister Mushi Special vocal mix) (4:00)
I Know You Got Soul (Mister Mushi Special instrumental mix) (4:03)
Review: Bobby Byrd's classic 'I Know You Got Soul' was originally recorded with James Brown's band The J.B.'s back in 1971 and soon became a club staple. It has endured in original form ever since but now it gets subtly reimagined by Mister Mushi. He offers a fresh, funky remix that's perfect for both crate diggers and DJ sets with the standout feature being the open drum break, which is a percussion lover's dream and has been designed to be sampled and looped for fun. Mister Mushi's impeccable mix stays true to the original funk spirit and the whole thing has been pressed on high-quality vinyl so it sounds superb.
Review: This track was originally released on a rare 7" in the mid-70s and later became the title track of Bobby Byrd's 1993 album. Dubbed 'Soulbrother #1' by Fred Wesley, soulful and funky legend Bobby Byrd rediscovered the track while at Soulciety Records in Hamburg. When the album On the Move (I Can't Get Enough) debuted in 1994, it became a surprise hit that was widely celebrated by rare groove fans and hip hop fans alike, all of whom who admired Bobby's work and his collaborations with James Brown. Now, this classic is available once more and features an unreleased instrumental version.
Bobby Byrd comes strutting on posthumously through to Sedsoulsociety with 'Never Get Enough'. This ineluctable treat was first released on Brownstone Recordings sometime during the early 70s funk heyday, and was produced and arranged by none other than that ingenious titan, James Brown, together with the beautiful 'My Concerto'. We usually wouldn't forgive the removal of the latter track from any reissue, but we're making an exception here, for the fact that an even greater treat lines this B-side reissue: a formerly unreleased instrumental of said James Brown classic production. Funk completists hardly need to be told not to sleep on this one.
Janet Jackson - "Got Til Gone" (feat Joni Mitchell & Q-Tip - DNA edit) (4:43)
Black Eyed Peas - "Joints & Jam" (DNA edit) (3:45)
Review: Two iconic tracks, each remixed with finesse by the DNA crew. On Side-1, 'Got Til It's Gone' receives a fresh edit that enhances its laid-back groove and lush, genre-blending aesthetic. The DNA touch subtly amplifies the track's timeless charm to a higher level. Side-2 offers 'Joints & Jam (DNA Edit)', revisiting their breakout underground hit with a polished edge. The remix retains the track's infectious energy while elevating its funky, soulful essence, capturing the group's pre-megastardom authenticity. Together, these edits highlight DNA's ability to preserve the originality of each track while delivering a cohesive and modern reimagining. Neat work.
Monsieur Van Pratt Le Groove - "El Rap Clap O" (Regroove) (4:40)
Bully Boy - "Fear'n'Loathing In Funk Vegas" (4:34)
Ben Jamin - "Old Time Feeling" (4:50)
Review: French funk lovers Acts of Sedition roll out another tasty double 7" here that features some massive joints from around the world. First up is the Latin heat of Rare Cuts's 'Amigo Bracno' with its big, bright leads, string lushness and percolating, percussive groove goodness all finished with a great Portuguese vocal. Monsieur Van Pratt Le Groove's 'El Rap Clap O' (Regroove) hits a little harder but with similar funk playfulness and some great chord work and Bully Boy then offers the raw and strident funk of 'Fear'n'Loathing In Funk Vegas.' Ben Jamin slows it right down with the sun-kissed late night bliss of 'Old Time Feeling.'
Review: UK soul and funk band The Baker Brothers have been delivering their signature grooves since bursting out of Bournemouth in 2000. Formed by Chris Pedley and brothers Dan and Richard Baker, their love for funk and soul has led to a dynamic career spanning 13 albums, including their latest, The Next Last Party. This new collection marks a return to their roots with tough, bass-heavy tracks like 'Sunrise' (featuring Hannah Williams), 'Heartbreaker,' and 'You Are The One'. Balancing fiery funk with soulful respite, further standout moments include 'Western Morning' (with Frankie Connolly) and the mellow closer 'All The Time'. This is another superb album full of timeless funk and soul fusion for many different moods.
Review: Jorge Ben is one of the most influential Brazilian artists of his era. The so-called samba king brought all new rule-breaking style to the genre - both musically and lyrically - and fomented his own freeform acid-samba spin-off over the course of an impossibly high number of albums. One of the problems is that many of them were all given the same name, including this one, Ben. Fortunately which ever one you pick up there is joy to be had. Here there are plenty of psychedelic head twisters such as the opener 'Morre O Burro Fica O Homem' as well as deer, more soulful cuts like 'Fio Maravilha'.
Por Causa De Voce, Menina/Chove Chuva/Mas Que Nada (4:11)
Agora, Ninguem Chora Mais/Charles, Anjo 45/Caramba! Galileu Da Galileia (5:20)
A Minha Menina/Que Maravilha/Zazuiera (5:56)
Bebete Vaobora/Crioula/Cade Tereza (4:45)
Pais Tropical/Fio Maravilha/Taj Majal (5:54)
Vendedor De Bananas/Cosa Nostra/Bicho Do Mato (6:29)
Que Nega E Essa/Que Pena/Domingas (7:28)
Vinheta (0:29)
Review: As you can probably work out from the title, this one is the tenth album from Brazil's samba king and genre game-changer Jorge Ben (it makes a change from him calling most of his albums 'Ben' to be honest.) It came first back in 1973 and features a collection of his then-most popular songs. All of them come from the first decade of his career but were all rerecorded as medleys. They bring with them sunny melodies and his signature stuffing grooves, acerbic and witty lyrics and easy to get lost in rhythms.
Review: Following the success of Matt Berry's 2021 release, The Blue Elephant, and last year's collaboration with KPM, his eighth studio album, Heard Noises, arrives via Acid Jazz. This album comes in a stunning label-exclusive gatefold edition on a classy sky blue vinyl. The lead single, 'I Gotta Limit', shows Matt's lyrical exchange with Kitty Liv, reflecting a man yearning for another chance with a woman who is losing patience. The song, influenced by Sly Stone, packs a wealth of musical ideas into its three-minute duration, blending Northern Soul with psychedelic elements. In contrast to the eclectic sounds of The Blue Elephant, Heard Noises embraces a looser, Californian psychedelic vibe, infusing the album with space pop influences and haunting melodies. Displaying Matt's remarkable musicianship, he plays nearly every instrument, from guitars to synths, joined by longtime collaborator Craig Blundell and an array of talented guests. This album encapsulates the diverse musical journey that has defined Matt Berry's career as a musician, alongside his roles as comedic actor.
Review: After a break from touring, Black Pumas hit the road again in 2024 to promote their highly praised sophomore album, Chronicles of a Diamond. The Live From Brooklyn Paramount 2xLP set encapsulates the vibrant "Electric Church" experience crafted by Eric Burton, Adrian Quesada and their band. This live recording showcases a blend of tracks from both their Grammy-nominated debut, including the hit 'Colors' and their latest work. Standout performances include 'Black Moon Rising', 'More Than A Love Song' and their rendition of Tracy Chapman's 'Fast Car'. The album perfectly captures the dynamic energy of Black Pumas' live shows, allowing fans to relive the electrifying atmosphere that defines their performances. With this release, the band reaffirms their place as one of the most engaging acts in contemporary music.
Review: After a touring break, soul outfit Black Pumas hit the road in 2024 in support of their celebrated second album, Chronicles of a Diamond. Live From Brooklyn Paramount captures the electrifying 'Electric Church' energy crafted by Eric Burton, Adrian Quesada and their six-piece band. The setlist spans highlights from both Chronicles and their million-selling debut, featuring Grammy-nominated hits like 'Colous' and 'Black Moon Rising' alongside fan favourites such as 'More Than a Love Song' and their soulful take on Tracy Chapman's seminal 'Fast Car'. This live release is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the band's powerful live performances.
Review: Boz Scaggs' 1969 album, blending Southern rock, blues and r&b, wasn't a commercial success but it set the stage for his future successes. Recorded at Muscle Shoals with co-producer Jann Wenner, the album captures the raw energy and magic of a remarkable collaboration. Scaggs' smooth, mellow vocals blend seamlessly with the legendary Muscle Shoals rhythm section, led by Duane Allman's iconic guitar work. The album spans multiple genresifrom country-tinged 'Waiting for a Train' to the sultry blues of 'Loan Me a Dime'. The latter, in particular, became a standout, with its extended, fiery guitar solos and a signature groove that captured the imagination of FM rock stations. The album's charm lies in its organic, unpretentious feel, as Scaggs and the musicians create something truly magical over six days of spontaneous recording. It's a celebration of Southern soul with a West Coast twist and it remains a fascinating glimpse into an artist finding his voice in the heart of Muscle Shoals.
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