Back catalogue: All genres

Review: There's not much to go on when it comes this latest release on trusted soul and funk outpost Epsilon. Whoever Pals & Gal were, their sound is rooted in the classic era of 70s soul even if the track was completed bang on the turn of the decade in 1980. There's a big band arrangement powering 'Lil' Bit Different' which was put together by Ron Foster, and there's as much focus on holding down the groove as different instruments coming to the fore to do their thing. The lyrics tell it straight - this is just a little bit different.

Review: Octave Japan collaborate with legendary illustrator Hiroshi Nagai to oversee and handle the artwork for a rare single reissue. Sourced from the vaults of the OG T.K. Records, to whom Nagai has been listening since day dot, The Perfections' super rare 1973 cut 'Love Storm' is a swelling romantic soul sundry from the Milwaukee muses, with impressive vocal glidings from the band's lead singer Harold Stewart lending to an unexpected mondegreen - we first heard "can't keep living this lifestyle" as the incorrect lapsus of "can't keep living this love storm". On the B-side comes Funky Nassau's 'Bahama Soul Stew', a much-loved modern rarity first released in 2005, much-loved indeed thanks to its 4x4 swag-bag and mellifluous Hammond dexterities.

Review: Taken from his debut album, released in 1976, Italian composer legend Presti's rawest funk roots are explored and celebrated to great effect right here. "Funky Bump" lives up to its name beautifully with very neat organ stabs and a relentless groove that's not dissimilar to Grace Jones' "Pull Up To The Bumper". Looking for a much dreamier, dewy eyed jam? Flip for the lavish whirls and swirls of "C. So Buenos Aires"... It couldn't be more 1976 (or Italian) if it tried.

Review: From the grave, Prince is serving up a banger just in time for Christmas fun this year in the form of a one-sided 12" on Warner. It found him working with his trusty New Power Generation and features the 'damn near 10 min' mix of the song 'Gett Off' which is sure to fire up any dancefloor. It was originally a single - also served up as a one-sider - to promote Prince's new band with a cover that boldly declared that "Nothing can stop Prince and the New Power Generation" and was only issued on 1500 copies, so this is a great treat for fans to own all these years later.

Review: Mickey De Grand IV and Psychic Mirrors are back with 'Charlene II', an updated live take on their cult classic, originally released via PPU. Fresh off their latest tour, this rendition adds new dimensions, capturing the wild energy and rich textures of their performance. On the flip, 'French Dip' teases what's coming in 2025islick, polished funk dripping with Miami cool, elevated by that unmistakable LA studio gloss. It's a preview of bigger things, but for now, this release solidifies Psychic Mirrors' status as genre-melting pioneers who aren't afraid to keep pushing boundaries.

Review: The Summits are a beloved fixture on the Soul Direction label and have plenty of fans in the wider soul collecting community. As a result they are now familiar to many and their track 'Window Shopping' emerged from an almost-lost master tape. It has previously been available only in digital format. on the flip, meanwhile, Phillips traverses diverse musical territories spanning from feel-good disco to funky fusion and modern soul. Among the six tracks recovered from numerous tapes, this one, 'People Clap Your Hands' stands out. It has never before been on vinyl and is a lo-fi, funk fuelled gem with soul infused vocals.

Review: Spasibo Records introduces a new 7" vinyl by St. Petersburg outfit the Vicious Seeds, this time on yellow and green wax. In an unconventional move, vibraphonist Pavel Chizhik takes the spotlight and the result is that he truly enhances the band's signature sound. 'Village Hassle' offers a unique blend of rare groove and instrumental reggae-soul - the A-side highlights Chizhik's vibraphone prowess, intertwining it with a dynamic instrumental backbeat. On the flip side, 'Monthly Rainfall' delves into a soulful journey, characterized by cross-sticked snares and offbeat chord plucks which create an atmosphere reminiscent of slow-jammed soul with a contemporary twist.

Review: Use Vinyl looks back to two iconic tracks from the 70s and 80s here for source material for a new remix EP by the Vannelli family. Joe T remixes 'Thrill Me' by The Wonderland Band into the sort of direct and funky house sound that brims with early dance music charm while the Vannelli Bros offer their rework of 'Party On' by Pure Energy which comes with plenty of energy for club contexts. Both tracks are presented as Classic Mix versions and bring plenty of new life to the original hits without forgoing the timeless, catchy and meaningful melodies that define the originals. House music like this is as authentic as it gets.

Review: Roland Haynes Jr. and his band Phenix may have only released one 45 in 1983, but their legacy extends far beyond that solitary record. This new collection of live recordings from the Quarter Moon club in Orangeburg, South Carolina, reveals the brilliance of Haynes and his ensemble. The album features a vibrant mix of originals and covers, including renditions of tracks by Marvin Gaye, Santana, Hubert Laws and The Jeff Lorber Fusion. These recordings, drawn from Haynes' personal archive, showcase the band's exceptional talent and ability to reinterpret classics while adding their own unique flair. The collection allows Haynes to assert his place among the most innovative jazz and soul artists of his time, capturing the energy and creativity of Phenix in their prime.

Review: Timely reissue of this rare Japanese Fusion/Boogie Classic!

Review: Pacific Express were an South African funk/jazz outfit with vibes of Stevie Wonder or Earth, Wind & Fire's music of the day and, originally released in 1979, this reissue showcases the band's pivotal role in shaping Cape Town jazz. Their blend of soul, funk, disco and r&b creates a seamless, groovy atmosphere, with the band's tight rhythm section and smooth instrumentation very much at the forefront. Tracks like 'Come True' highlight the excellent vocal performances and musicianship, with lush piano and string arrangements adding a lounge-like vibe. The standout ballad 'What Is The Answer' is emotionally charged, showcasing the band's depth. 'What I Feel' offers a catchy, upbeat groove, perfectly encapsulating the album's blend of relaxed yet funky vibes. Somewhat incredibly, this the album's first reissue, so our advice would be to jump on it.

Review: Released in 1971, Ralfi Pagan's self-titled album is a defining moment in Latin Soul, showcasing his talent as both a singer and songwriter on the Fania roster. Highlights include the salsa opener "Mi Chamaco," the Joe Bataan-penned "Just One of Your Kisses," and the classic hit "Make It With You." This reissue features lacquers cut by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and is pressed on high-quality 180-gram vinyl, ensuring superior sound quality.

Review: Prolfic producer Neiro 'Papik' Poggi founded the Soultrend Orchestra almost 15 years ago as a vehicle for his acid jazz, funk, soul, disco and jazz-funk fantasies. The project has been 'on ice' for a while, with Now Imagine, officially the band's second studio set, appearing a decade after its predecessor. It's a typically musically rich affair with a string of guest vocalists joining the expansive 'orchestra' to run through happy, sun-splashed tracks. Highlights come thick and fast throughout, from a lightly Latin-tinged cover of Sister Sledge disco classic 'Lost In Music' and the Jamiroquai-esque warmth and soul of 'Wiser' (featuring Wendy D Lewis), to the vibraphone-wielding smooth grooves of 'Touched By Your Love' and the glossy jazz-funk-goes-house rainbows of 'You Came Along' (featuring Steve Biondi).

Review: De Wolfe Music Library is reissuing Keith Papworth's 1975 album which will be music to the ears - pun intended - of record diggers who probably thought they might never own a copy of this grail. His masterpiece is perfectly entitled and is defined by super hard hitting drums and high action hits. The minimalist sounds and heavy grooves have funk deep in their bones, and extra theatre comes from the whistles, natty basslines and big riffing guitars. Papworth not only wrote for this label but also has music featured in Monty Python skits and movies. This, though, is his standout work.

Review: Alan Parker & Alan Hawkshaw's Black Pearl is a classic from 1973 that deserves the regular reissue treatment it enjoys. It is a cult classic bit of library music on De Wolfe that takes the form of a collection of orchestral funk pieces that are perfect examples of the dramatic music styles synonymous with the 70s. Some pieces are widescreen, string laced opuses with lavish 60s exotica influences while others are more moody and dramatic with thunderous drums and edgier strings.

Review: Parlor Greens' debut album, In Green We Dream, is a prime example of the raw energy and collaborative spirit that defines their sound. Comprised of seasoned musicians Tim Carman on drums, Jimmy James on guitar, and Adam Scone on organ, this organ trio from Colemine Records dives headfirst into a rich blend of jazz, soul, and funk. The album bursts with vintage vibes reminiscent of Blue Note and Prestige records, yet infused with their distinct flair. From the lively groove of 'Parlor Strut,' where Jimmy James's guitar work shines with rhythm and precision, to the soulful sway of 'Sugar Maple,' each track features their musical chemistry and individual strengths. Adam Scone's masterful command of the organ adds depth and soulfulness throughout, drawing from his extensive experience in the soul revival scene. Recorded at Colemine's Portage Lounge, the album captures the spontaneity and magic of their initial jam session, yielding ten original compositions and a cover, all delivered with infectious energy and tight musicianship. In Green We Dream not only pays homage to their influences like Grant Green and The Meters but also establishes Parlor Greens as a band to look out for in contemporary music.

Review: Parlor Greens' debut album, In Green / We Dream, is an exhilarating entry into heavy instrumental music. This fresh organ trio, featuring Tim Carman (GA-20) on drums, Jimmy James (True Loves, formerly Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio) on guitar, and Adam Scone (Scone Cash Players, The Sugarman 3) on organ, delivers a masterful blend of soul, jazz, and funk. Scone's impeccable organ work, honed through years of soul jazz and Daptone sessions, pairs perfectly with James' signature funky guitar and Carman's rock-solid, blues-infused drumming. Recorded at Colemine Records' new Portage Lounge studio in Loveland, Ohio, the chemistry was immediate. Within minutes of plugging in, the trio wrote and recorded 'West Memphis,' setting the tone for the rest of the album. Over three days, they crafted 11 tracks - ten originals - capturing a raw, soulful energy straight to tape. The result is a stunning collection of music, mixed beautifully for a vintage yet fresh sound. In Green / We Dream is a fantastic debut, showcasing Parlor Greens' collective genius and undeniable groove.

Review: This compilation is a vibrant celebration of Gnonnas Pedro, the legendary Beninese composer and musician. Spanning his career from 1967 to 1985, it showcases Pedro's remarkable versatility and eclectic musical palette; featuring 21 tracks that traverse genres with ease, from the Afrobeat energy of 'Pas De Petard' and 'L'Indomptable Gnonnas Pop' to the salsa rhythms of 'Tembleque' and the soulful grooves of 'How Much Love Naturally Cost'. Pedro's music is a fusion of influences, blending traditional African sounds with funk, soul and Latin flavours and highlights here include the irresistible 'Dadje Von O Von Non', the funky 'Yiri Yiri Boum', and the soulful 'Bailando Mi Solo'.

Review: Analog Africa is back with a dedicated project celebrating Gnonnas Pedro, the king of Modern Agbadja, and they press it up on a marvellous double album that includes an eight-page booklet with a ton of extra info. This bumper pack features 16 of Pedro's best works, all of which captivated Africa at the time. His vibrant blend of Agbadja, Cuban fon, jerk, highlife and more unique styles, all of which come with vocals sung in Fon, Mina, Yoruba, French, English and Spanish, add up to one hell of a rich sound. A great testament to the artist's extraordinary legacy.

Review: Modern psych master Misha Panfilov unleashes yet more fresh psych heaven under his new outfit Penza Penza, laying down the unbridledly satisfying new album Electrocolorized. In the words of its chief endorser Matt Chandler, the album is chock-full of Stax, Motown and Blue Note-esque notes, circling in and around the thematic cornerstone that is the funk jam, though not succumbing to its cliches and pratfalls. Finding joy in the imperfect - the sonic wabi-sabi - the likes of 'Der Himmel Uber Kakumae' and 'The World Of High Voltage Badgers' are instrumental exemplars of the vintage, basking in the style's psychic, sun-beaten buzz.

Review: Penza Penza, led by Misha Panfilov, is back with a fourth LP, Alto E Primitivo, which was recorded at private events in Funchal, Portugal, and Tallinn, Estonia. The album underscores Panfilov's genre-blending prowess on Detroit's Funk Night Records across 14 tracks that blend deep grooves, intricate guitars, and soulful rhythms from psychedelia to garage rock. The dynamic tracks showcase the groups' newly matured sound with refined production that will find favour with fans of Khruangbin and The Budos Band. Tracks like 'Wacky,' 'Pterodactyl,' and 'Boo Hoo Boogaloo' highlight their instrumental prowess while occasional distorted vocals add texture. Alto E Primitivo then is another gem from Penza Penza.

Review: Some 25 killer library music cuts by the German film music maestro Peter Thomas, on audiophile pressing, in a deluxe 2×10? set. Uber-rare, never-before-released material spanning 1968-1976 - and sourced from Thomas' personal reel-to-reel tape archive - this bombastic instrumental set spans a whole range of quirky overseen by the composer himself, documenting an approach to composition that essentially augurs electronic music production as we know it today. Prolific in scope, the 25 pieces here rival the sheerly industrious proliferations of many of today's artists, and even outstrips them in quantitative ambition; but then again, what less might one expect from a soundtrack artist by trade, whose work spanned over 600 films? Best of this bunch have to be 'Meeting Palermo', whose brushes revel in a beaucoup frisson, and 'Astral Snow' - a whacked-out absurdist electro-disco frazzler for the most frenetic out there. This one also comes with four recently unearthed 'lost' tracks from Warner Chappell's CPM Archive series, which have never been released on vinyl before. We'll hazard a quip: the word 'timeless' often doesn't come to mind, yet it has done here.

Review: Gilles Peterson's obsession with Cuba is long running and well documented over various compilations from across the years. His latest focusses on Experiments in Latin Music from 1975 to 85 and the title suggests it will be the first of an ongoing series on Soul Jazz, compiled in collaboration with Stuart Baker. Across three vibrant sides of vinyl all manner of grooves are offered up, some more traditional, some bravely out there, all drawing on the jazz, funk, Brazilian tropicalia and disco - mixed with classic Latin and salsa - which made it to the island in the 70s.

Review: Izipho Soul chart the best unreleased works of the band Phyrework, dousing the would-be disco-funk pyromaniac in freshly siphoned sonic fuel. The burst radii on these unissued mortar shells and peony whistlers are rather large, and their emotive impact warrants large curtilage zones; you'd better put up a whopping fence around this shoot site. Only a couple of tracks from the original and horribly undersung Phyrework LP from 1978 feature here, because this is a record built to refire the squibs that didn't make it past the licensers' firing line, not bask in the ash of those already fired. Contemporaries of Earth, Wind & Fire and Marvin Gaye, Phyrework bring complementary girandolas of P-funk on 'Never Felt Like This', and twirl fire through the air on the Afrobeat-tinged soul cut 'Make It Last'.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


A fresh compilation album documents the best of the late 70s disco-funk-jazz-everything band Phyrework, synthesising a pyrotechnist's hand and a cutting engineer's ear. The Texan group were signed to Mercury in 1978 and released a hotly acclaimed debut album, and while their talents matched the likes of Sly And The Family Stone and Earth, Wind & Fire, they remained criminally under-world, resulting in the band's disbandment after the release. So this is a salvaging effort worth your while; a whopping nine of the songs have never been heard before, and only a complementary two appeared on the original early 80s single. All produced by Michael Cooper of Con Funk Shun, the likes of 'My Funk', 'Never Felt Like This' and 'What Happened To Us' command an extra jerkiness and synthweight bolshiness not nailed by many of their much-more-famous contemporaries.

Review: This vinyl reissue of Plush's 1982 album is a joyous celebration of a hidden gem from the golden era of r&b. Originally overlooked, Plush were more than just another band; they were more a collaboration of talented artists including Bobby Watson, Rene Moore and Angela Winbush. Together, they crafted a blend of dance music featuring the vocals of Siedah Garrett, Tony Phillips, and Ambrose Price II. Discovered by chance in 1983 with the radio hit 'We've Got the Love,' often mistaken for Dynasty, Plush faded into obscurity despite its promising start. With production reminiscent of Shalamar and Leon Sylvers III, Plush's self-titled album encapsulates the vibrant r&b trends of early 80s with infectious melodies and pulsating rhythms. The standout single 'Free and Easy,' penned by Moore and Winbush, embodies the era's transitional r&b sound, driven by a pronounced bass line and upbeat percussion. Despite its short-lived presence, Plush's legacy is revived through this reissue, allowing modern listeners to appreciate its rich musicality and Angela Winbush's influential contributions. 40 years later, this album oozes nostalgia about a great time in dance and rhythm and blues.

Review: A formerly impossible to find second album by Nicaraguan band Poder De Alma, first released in 1975. A cool mix of Latin funk, jazz, salsa and psychedelic grooves, this one includes some of the group's most sought-after tracks like 'Bacanal' 76,' 'Mimo' or the antiracist statement 'La Conga de las Dos Razas.' After recording their first LP in Guatemala, the Nica supergroup travelled to Costa Rica to register their second album; this time, the recording studio and equipment available to them (including a Mini-Moog) were an improvement compared to their prior project and the band saw a new line-up. The result was a powerful album which is now one of the holy grails of Latin funk worldwide.

Review: Led by Luke Solomon, The Legion of Boogie Down returns with their second album, Powerdance II, eight years after the success of their debut The Lost Art of Getting Down. Since then the collective has evolved by adding more experimental sounds to their vision of nightclub and basement music. This album continues their journey of genre-blending with the addition of Chris Penny, rising star Josh Ludlow, and original members Alinka and Lance Desardi. Featuring wild synths, drums and percussion from Holly Madge, this left-of-centre record offers a trippy mix of disco, funk and house that leads to a cosmic musical adventure in some style.

Review: This release sees Connie Price & The Keystones bridging the gap between classic soul and contemporary hip-hop, delivering a collection of hard-hitting grooves that are both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. It features a stellar lineup of guest MCs, including Bootie Brown, Rakaa Iriscience, and Guilty Simpson, each adding their unique flavour to the mix. The A-side is a showcase of raw lyricism and infectious beats, with tracks like 'All Night (The Pharcyde)' and 'For The Wicked (Dilated Peoples)' capturing the essence of golden-era hip-hop while maintaining a distinctly soulful edge. On the flip, Professor Shorthair provides a series of remixes, adding a touch of dancefloor energy to the proceedings. From the extended mixes of 'All Night' and 'For The Wicked' to the bounce-infused reimagining of 'Come On Down (To New Orleans)', these remixes showcase the versatility of the original material and its ability to transcend genre boundaries. This is a must-have for fans of both classic soul and contemporary hip-hop, a testament to the enduring power of music to connect generations and inspire new creative expressions.

Review: Kolony Gorky is back with a third EP in less than a year that once again offers some stylish and artful rhythmic interpretations. DDrhode is behind this one in collaboration with Sohrab and it opens with the airy percussive pattern and suspensory loops of deep and deft jam 'Ghoroob' (Kryptic Rhythm) which becomes dusty downbeat and late-night jaunt when served up as the Buggin Beat. 'Azadi' has the feel of a 60s spy thriller with its mysterious leads and 'Distant Sun'shuts down with some zoned out and loved-up deep house romance. Another hard-to-define but easy-to-love EP from the already vital Kolony Gorky.

Review: Prince is a name that needs no introduction. The Vault ... Old Friends 4 Sale was originally released in 1999 , a full three years after being submitted to Warner Bros in 1996. Thus, it was recorded in 1994 and 1995 which in many fans' eyes, follows some of the best Prince work when he was known as the symbol. Stylistically, the album has Prince exploring more jazz elements while still remaining clearly a Prince album. Perhaps due to Prince not doing a world tour to support the album and lack of radio friendly singles, the album wasn't the chart success that the label hoped for but to fans it holds a special place in their Prince discography.

Review: The Purple One had many different official aliases but in 1995 came one of his best/worst - he was asked to be known by the unpronounceable symbol shown on the album cover of this record. Known amongst fans as the "love symbol" it was credited with this album, The Gold Experience, his impressive seventeenth studio long player overall. The whole record was produced by the legendary singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist himself and as with most of his works it reached the upper end of the Billboard chart. Standouts include the likes of 'The Most Beautiful Girl in the World', 'I Hate U', and 'Gold'. One of many essential albums in his oeuvre.

Review: A series of Prince albums are being reissued by Warner, including this one from 1994. By then the legendary funk artist's relationship with his label was hugely stringed and he had recently change his name, for the first of several times to [Love Symbol]. This album was one of a number that the Purple One wrote in a short space of time in order to free himself from his contract with the major label. Despite those circumstances, it is still a standout record that managed to get to Number One in the UK despite a lack of support from Prince himself upon release.

Review: Prince's early career was marked by a fearless blending of musical genres, provocative lyrics, and an undeniable magnetism that propelled him into superstardom. One of the key moments in this trajectory was his Controversy tour in 1981-1982, which cemented his status as an innovative and trailblazing artist. The live album, Controversy At The Capitol: New Jersey Broadcast 1982, captures a crucial moment during this tour and now offers those who were there, or those who want toffee like they were, a glimpse into his artistry at a time when he was beginning to define his future legacy.

Review: When Prince first formed the New Power Generation - or NPG to fans - it was 1990 and the world was already had over heels with the Purple King. But nobody could imagine what was coming next. Drafting a press release, with typical modesty (ahem), the legendary pop icon described group as the "best band ever". Incredibly, there's a strong case for the fact he was bang on the money. In time, fans would co-opt the label "the funkiest band in the land", which is similarly accurate. This live recording really showcases what Prince, and the public, meant. It rocks out, it's sensationally soulful, and relentlessly danceable. Ultimately, then, it's an incredible listen, but one what also emphasises just how much was lost when this bonafide enigma tragically bowed out, long before his time.

Review: Few words required: Prince's legacy is like no other and will live on as long as there is music. His self-titled sophomore release, of his 39 studio album repertoire this one is especially significant. You can hear him revelling in experimentalism, playing with ideas that would become the lead on future works (such as the big glam guitars on "Bambi" and lewd, brazen slap bass on "Sexy Dancer"), it also contains his original version of "I Feel For You" (famously covered by Chaka Khan) and his first hit single "I Wanna Be You Lover". Laced with some really heart-rending ballads (made all the more poignant since he passed away), it's one of many testaments that we'll never forget him. Rest in peace.

Review: Diamonds & Pearls was the sound of Prince stepping into the 90s and making it his own, embracing a slick, big-budget production and dabbling in new jack swing and house as much as his more traditional, soulful songwriting. It's fit to burst with classics, not least the huge singles 'Gett Off', 'Cream' and 'Diamonds & Pearls' itself, but there's so many other gems to savour on this seminal album from the purple wonder. 'Strollin', 'Willing & Able' and knockout closer 'Live 4 Love' are but four highlights. Newly remastered and repressed on double vinyl, you can re-acquaint yourself with some of the finest work from a true genius.

Review: NPG Records and Paisley Park Enterprises, in partnership with Warner Records, are pleased to announce the release of a brand-new audiophile Blu-ray featuring 2024's Dolby Atmos mix of Prince and the Revolution's iconic 1984 album, Purple Rain, as well as Prince's original 1984 stereo mix, in high-definition 24bit / 96kHz audio.

Prince shattered all expectations and made music history when he released the album Purple Rain, followed by the hit movie of the same name weeks later. The 9-track LP went on to win two Grammy awards ("Best Rock Performance by a Group" & "Best Album of Original Score Written For A Motion Picture"), two American Music Awards, a Brit Award, and an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. In 2012 the Library of Congress added the album to the National Recording Registry, which only accepts sound recordings that "are culturally, historically, or aesthetically important, and/or inform or reflect life in the United States." Purple Rain spent 24 weeks at #1 on the Billboard album charts, sold over 25 million copies worldwide, and appears on countless 'Best Of' polls, most recently achieving the #4 spot on Apple Music's Top 100 Albums Of All Time.

The 2024 Atmos presentation of Purple Rain featured on this Blu-Ray, was meticulously mixed from the original multi-track master tapes by Prince's protege and Best Engineered Grammy nominee Chris James. It was released via all participating Digital Service Providers on June 21, 2024. "In 2024 we started our year-long celebration of the 40th anniversary of Purple Rain, we are thrilled to present Prince's masterpiece in ATMOS, providing an immersive, surround auditory experience of Prince's legendary album. This highly crafted release will present Prince's iconic work with more space and depth while preserving the beautiful songs that have shaped music and popular culture, and touched the lives of countless fans around the world." - Paisley Park Enterprises

Region code: universal

Review: Prince Buster, born Cecil Bustamente Campbell in 1938, was a key figure in the birth of ska and rocksteady, and infamously embodied the term "rude boy"; he'd come to enshrine a symbol of rebellious youth culture in Jamaica. A leading conspirator in early soundsystem culture, Buster's story stretches as far back as the days of systems such as Tom The Great Sebastian as well as variou Kingston-bound stacks operated by Coxsone Dodd. Now this eagerly awaited third volume from Rock A Shaka continues to compile Buster's best works, the standouts among them being 'A Tribute to The Toughest' from 1967 - believed to be a precursor to the long-loved 'Ghost Dance' - and his cover of James Carr's 'Dark End of the Street,' Ernest Ranglin's 'Come Get Me,' and Winston Samuels' 'I'm Still Here.'

Review: Not to be confused with 80s synth-poppers or an early Carl Craig alias, Psyche is in fact a crack team of players from Naples who have been active for some two decades. In more recent times you might have heard Marcello Giannini, Andrea De Fazio and Paolo Petrella playing as part of Nu Genea's touring band, but after their first tour in 2018 they formed this project as a means of exploring a more minimal, flowing approach to playing their chosen instruments. If Psyche is in some ways a back to basics record, it's also a showcase for their incredible talent at weaving gently psychedelic grooves from simple ingredients. The sound has a perfect treatment, with plenty of reverb and analogue warmth in the mix, all the better to savour the laconic instrumental pieces the band perform.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Original pioneers of rare groove PUSH made a welcome return with this exciting album back in 2004 when it first dropped. It remains a vibrant workout 20 years later and blends classic underground rare grooves with contemporary feel-good funk and soul, featuring heartfelt songs and incredible instrumental pieces along the way. Emerging from the London club scene in 1987, PUSH thrived on JB-inspired funk, blaxploitation soundtracks, and raw soul-jazz. They toured Europe and Japan, performing at Gilles Peterson's legendary Dingwalls sessions. Key members Crispin Taylor, Ernie McKone, and Mark Vandergucht also played with Galliano and supported US divas like Candi Staton and Marlena Shaw.

Review: Asha Puthli's triumphant return to the stage after 44 years is marked by tour dates across the US, Australia, and Europe, including iconic performances at Glastonbury and We Out Here. To celebrate this milestone, Mr Bongo has repressed her legendary 1976 album, The Devil Is Loose, on gold vinyl. This album, featuring the psychedelic disco-funk classic 'Space Talk,' exemplifies Puthli's eclectic career spanning 60s psyche, free-jazz, pop, rock and disco. Each track on The Devil Is Loose highlights Puthli's celestial style and sumptuous vocal range, supported by orchestral-infused, disco-enhanced instrumentation. The album transitions seamlessly from the infectious funk of 'Flying Fish' to the cosmic transcendence of the title track, and the choir-channelling 'Say Yes.' Puthli's majestic vocals cast a unique spell, making the album cinematic and captivating throughout. Whether replacing a worn-out original copy or discovering Asha Puthli for the first time, this quintessential slice of her world promises to enchant and inspire.