Review: Here's a nod to late 70s disco, funk and boogie featuring some of the best NYC musicians to grace the scene in the past 20 years, and recorded at Soul Fire Studios featuring over two dozen musicians. Members of El Michels Affair, Lee Fields & The Expressions, The Dap- Kings, Antibalas and more are featured on 10th Street's '(Gonna Get) Hot Tonight' which is a classic and timeless disco funk affair featuring an absolutely sublime string section. Over on the flip, the slower and more emotive 'Hot Tonight' (part II) makes for feelgood vibes on the dancefloor later in the night, featuring sensual vocals to boot.
Review: Masterminded by Jeff Dynamite Silverman, 10th Street is an all-star studio band comprised of some of NYC's best disco, funk and soul musicians of the last two decades (including members of Antibalas, the Dap-Kings, The Expressions and El Michels Affair). The collective's self-titled debut album, which dropped earlier this year, is a genuine must-listen and offers a near perfect distillation of disco, soul and funk flavours of the 1970s. This 7" single sports two of that set's standout cuts: hazy, mid-tempo, laidback disco-funk number 'Livin' In New York City', where Blaxploitation guitar licks, spacey synths, sustained organ chords and eyes-closed female vocals catch the ear, and the weightier, more percussive and undeniably dancefloor-friendly instrumental 'Moodie's Basement'. In a word: essential!
Review: The brilliantly entitled 1619 Bad Ass Band covered myriad different styles from mellow sound to furious funk on their superlative and self-titled debut long player back in 1976. Two of it's standout tunes now get pulled and pressed on this red hot 7" from P-Vine, complete with a flip-back sleeve. That LP is a rare one amongst the famous TSG catalogue and first up from it is the mid-tempo dance gem 'Nothing Can Stop My Loving You' while on the flip there is the more heavy funk sound of 'Step Out' which anyone who has listened to any DJ Shadow will know he sampled.
Review: Little is known about this early 1970s psychedelic soul group from Germantown, Philadelphia. However, their record was recorded in 1969 and released in 1970 as one of two releases on Michael Nise's Round Records (Nise Productions INC). Now, remastered from an original pristine vinyl copy in collaboration with Nise Productions, this marks the first official reissue of the album. The group's music captures the essence of the era's soul and psychedelic influences, making this a long-awaited release for collectors and fans of vintage soul.
Review: The 4 Jades are a mysterious soul and funk group from Ohio, who first released these two stunning tracks in 1972 under the label Cin-Town Records. Written and produced by label owner Wilbert Longmire, who also features on guitar here, he joins the likes of William L Johnson for a loving stylistic homage to the likes of James Brown and Curtis Mayfield here. Both 'Gee, How I Miss You' and 'Doon-Chang' express the sultrier and waltzier respective ends of the Jades' sound; don't let their name fool you, as they're anything but 'jaded', with the former track flaunting their lithely harmonic acapella abilities and the latter reflecting a more sexually tense atmosphere, one that hardly assumes a thing.
Review: A Skillz and Krafty Kuts are veteran names by now but at one option they were some of the hottest new DJs and producers in the game. They pioneered a breakbeat, cut-up and paste sounds 20 years ago that was high on energy and with plenty of character. Now they look to the roots of the sounds they used to draw from and serve up a new single on Jam City that is all about disco. 'Lit Up' has loose, jumbled drums and funk basslines with some great vocal flourishes up top from Gizelle Smith. A remix on the flip takes things into deeper new soul territory.
Review: Neil Anderson's Original Gravity loves to look back and revive forgotten classics and that is what it does again here with a quick reissue of something it dropped back in March. This time out it is two more massive slices of tasty Latin funk getting served up. The first is Abram & Nestor's 'Four Minutes Of Funk' which is indeed four minutes of funk that will unite dancefloors from here to eternity with its big organ magic. Nestor Alvarez' 'El Trombonista' is as you might guess denied by its big trombone and also boasts some great horn work. Do not sleep.
Review: Jonathan Richman's 'Egyptian Reggae' has been setting discerning dancefloors alight since its release in 1977, during the golden era of punk. Known for its infectious rhythm, the track has seen a few reggae remixes over the years. However, it was time for something freshia playful yet respectful cumbia twist. Both genres share a certain groove, making them a perfect match, and it's easy to imagine DJs weaving these sounds together in their sets. This new take on 'Egyptian Reggae' has been recorded in Lima by Pancho Acosta, the founder and guitarist of Company Quinto, and one of Peru's finest cumbia guitarists. Acosta brings his expert touch to the track, transforming it into an upbeat cumbia gem. On the flip side, we're treated to one of Acosta's own originals, 'Carnaval de Jujuy', recorded by Austin-based future cumbia outfit Money Chicha. The song blends Peru's fuzzed-out early chicha sound with Money Chicha's unique, modern interpretation of the genre, delivering a fresh, captivating cumbia vibe.
Ivano Fossati - "Night Of The Wolf (Tema Del Lupo)" (4:00)
Review: Measured Mile records puts two classy soul tracks onto the same 7". Originally released in 1974, Act 1 - 'It's The Same Old Story' is often looked over classic of the era. Act 1 hailed from Detroit and featured Raeford Gerald, Roger Terry, Reggie Ross and George Barker. The band had two minor hits but often people recall 'It's The Same Old Story' as their favorite of their only full album. Ivano Fossati's 'Night Of The Wolf' is found on the B-side. A jam song that verges slightly into Latin music, asks for quite a sum of money for its original copy. Both tracks add up to a real gem of a 7".
Review: Soul fans are in heaven this month, just from the releases of Soul Direction alone. The label has been hard at work serving up plenty of golden nuggets and next in the spotlight is Joe Adams. 'That's Not Half Bad' is his stunning version of the Gene Woodbury classic. This is another lost tune that was found on a DAT tape recording made from material that was laying around in an old basement. It comes steeped in rich Philly soul and with gorgeous vocals that for us outshine the original. On the flip, it is backed with an equally sublime mid-tempo heart-wrencher for those tender moments.
Review: This release was deftly crafted by Visceral Grooves in collaboration with Dig. Find. Listen. Sample. Chop. Repeat., featuring the duo of LA artists Sankofa and J. Dankworth. Side A is a killer instrumental hip-hop cover of the Billy Brooks' classic 40 Days, while side B is a slow-burning original composition by the band Aesthetic, lifted from the forthcoming album 'Anesthetic'.
Review: The long-running Mushi 45 label from Japan is back with another big serving of Afro-tinged funk. This 45rpm is limited to just 300 copies and features both parts of Afro Breed's Toootee. It is our first brush with this artist but we like what we hear here - 'Tootee (part 1)' has a James Brown-style take on funk with trilling acoustic guitar and tumbling drum breaks under big vocals. 'Tootee (part 2)' introduces a more libidinous sax sound that is steamy and sultry and seductive.
Review: Still peddling pure and fast jazz-funk disco, and coming straight from the source, Afrodisia are an ingeniously named German band whose stated intent was to transcend colour and creed through the mode of music. The band barely squeezed by with four EPs and an LP to their name; these two new cuts were recorded for a second album, which never saw the light of day. The A cut is the highlight, being the dreamiest and creamiest of the two.
Review: Hot Casa France reissue a sultry drum workout from master Turkish darbouka player Yasar Akpence's 2004 album 'Passion Percussion'. 'Desert wind' layers unbelievably tight darbouka trills and phrases over a pulsing, almost dembow-esque core, making for a perfect Balearic DJ tool for any occasion. We can imagine this one bookending hypnotic techno wormholes in a small hours Donato Dozzy set, with its wide stereo drum intrusions and tight production longing to be aired off a suitably weighty soundsystem. Truly chameleonic and compelling music!
Review: Kalita Records proudly unveils the reissue of the legendary gospel disco anthem, 'Doing Our Thing With Pride' by the Al-Dos Band, alongside the previously unheard gem, 'Love Jones Coming Down.' Originally crafted in 1976 by William and Elizabeth Robinson in Greenville, South Carolina, this soulful masterpiece captures the essence of uplifting gospel disco, blending seamlessly between tranquil listening and dancefloor euphoria. Originally pressed in a minuscule run of 200 copies on their own Warmer Productions label, the single struggled to find its place amidst the musical landscape of its era. However, its scarcity only enhanced its allure, becoming a holy grail for collectors willing to pay top dollar for a rare original. Following their successful excavation of the band's unreleased album in 2021, Kalita Records now presents this coveted record in a limited-edition 7" picture sleeve single, ensuring its legacy is preserved and accessible to a new generation of music enthusiasts.
Review: Rediscover a treasure from the Dade Records vault with the reissue of Arnold Albury & The Casuals' 'That's A Bet,' brought back to life by ReGrooved Records. This analogue-remastered 7" highlights a key track from 1970, recently featured in the popular series 'Sex Education.' The flip side, 'My Baby Don't Understand,' is equally stunning, showcasing the soulful essence of Miami's vibrant music scene. Arnold Hoss Albury, a brilliant keyboardist, played a pivotal role in shaping the Miami Sound, contributing to iconic records by artists like James Knight & The Butlers and Betty Wright. This re-release offers a rare opportunity to own a slice of musical history and experience the soulful brilliance of Albury & The Casuals.
Review: Alessandro Alessandroni is a library music legend who set the blueprint for the genre early on and then managed to get even more famous because of providing the iconic whistle on famous spaghetti western 'A Fistful of Dollars'. The influential composer and musician had a big say in the world of soundtracks during the 60s and 70sFour Flies have often released his work or covers of it. The tunes on this 7" are taken from an obscure 1975 Italian film by Elio Bartolini. They walk the thin line between disco and funk and jazz-funk with big horn and rhythm sections. Both might have been lost forever if it weren't for the fact that this label put them on the now modern classic and hard to find compilations Esterno Notte and Esterno Giorno.
Review: Alessandro Alessandroni (often said to be the most famous whistle in the history of film thanks to appearing on famous spaghetti western 'A Fistful of Dollars') is a legendary composer and musician who very much had a big say in the characteristic sound of Italian soundtracks during the 60s and 70s. This lovely 7" from Four Flies showcases that with two well chosen cuts that have been taken from a dusty tape found in the great man's vault. 'Shine On' is superbly stylish funk with some seductive vocals and rolling drums all peppered with golden chords and dynamic horns. 'Prohibition' is a little more mellow but still features magic Rhodes and characterful horns.
Review: The Alex Santos Orchestra is a self-described "orchestra" orchestrated for the express purpose of sanctifying one Alex Santos' lifelong love for jazz and Latin music. Following the much loved 'Alex Santos Y Su Orquesta', 2021's next step in Latinizing said quasi-conceptual ensemble, we've now landed in the project's live ambit. 'The Alex Santos Orchestra On Tour' captures just two live highlights from a much more recent outing (given the mystification surrounding the project, this may or may not have happened). Whatever the case, these recordings span both potentialities, retaining something of a highly-strung Hammond organ come upfront-drumkit drama on the B-side, 'Mr Clean', and an equally stirring version of the main theme from 'The Godfather' on the A.
Review: The opening notes of Sun Goddess set the tone for what feels like the perfect soundtrack to a summer afternoon. Track one, 'Sun Goddess (Instrumental)', introduces a playful yet sophisticated guitar riff, effortlessly blending elements of funk and soul. It's the kind of groove that immediately hooks you, a little funky, a little laid-back, making it impossible not to nod along. Things get even more vibrant with track two, 'Sun Goddess (feat Mykah 9)'. Here, the energy is dialled up, offering a soulful twist as Mykah 9's vocals glide smoothly over the beat. The track oozes warmth, combining funky rhythms with a band-like cohesiveness that makes you feel like you're right in the middle of a live performance. It's an immersive experience, with the vocals adding richness and depth to an already bright sound. Both tracks embrace that quintessential summer vibe, blending funk, soul and a touch of band music to create something undeniably upbeat and positive. Mykah 9's contributions, particularly on 'Sun Goddess', add an extra layer of groove, making it a standout. There's an ease to these tracks, an effortless cool that makes them feel timeless, and together, they deliver a feelgood, sun-soaked energy that's hard to resist.
Review: Bernard "Pretty" Purdie and his Playboys were an iconic funk group of the late 70s who had big hits with the likes of Gil Scott Heron on his seminal 'The Revolution Will Not Be Televised' single. A year later on the same label, Flying Dutchman, they served up the 'Heavy Soul Slinger' single which gets reissued here. It's driven by big drum breaks and funky hits, with plenty of lush chords and rolling basslines all taking you on a high class and sophisticated trip. On the a-side is Harold Alexander 's 'Mama Soul' from the same era, but with a much more experimental sound rooted in wordless ad libs and frantic flutes.
Review: Soul Jazz Records promise this is a one off and strictly limited pressing of Alien Starr's 'World Of Ecstasy.' It is a faithful reproduction of the original in terms of art and sound and has been restored from the label after they included it on their excellent recent Space Funk 2 - Afro-Futurist Electro Funk In Space 1976-84 compilation. tUSA in 1985 featuring big slap bass energy, hand claps, drum funk and electro boogie bass. .
Review: The Allergies' latest offering is a double dose of sample-heavy goodness, a testament to their cratedigging prowess and knack for flipping vintage sounds into dancefloor gold. 'Knock Me Off My Feet' is a glorious reimagining of a late-sixties Southern soul 45. The original Motown-influenced arrangement is already a potent brew, but The Allergies inject it with a booster shot of fat drums, beefy bass, punchy percussion, and soaring horns, propelling it into another dimension entirely. It's a vibrant, energetic track that's sure to get any party started. On the flip side, 'Let Me Hear You Say' transports us back to the sweaty, pulsating energy of the early-80s New York club scene. Old-school MC chants intertwine with strutting disco loops, creating a sleek, slinky groove that's pure retro realness. The beat is infectious and relentless, a hypnotic pulse that demands movement. This 7" single is a delightful double-header of dancefloor delights, a testament to The Allergies' ability to breathe new life into vintage sounds. It's a must-have for any self-respecting vinyl enthusiast and a guaranteed mood-booster for any occasion. The Allergies have once again proven their mastery of the sample-based art form, delivering two tracks that are both respectful of their source material and utterly transformative. A joyous celebration of music's past, reimagined for the present.
Review: Jalapeno remains one of the hottest and most spicy labels out there for hip hop lovers, and now it is The Allergies who bring the heat on a new and limited edition 7". They kick this one off with 'Stanky Funk' which features Bootie Brown and brings some old school cool, plenty of retro organ chords and noodling basslines that will tie the dance floor in knots. 'Never Gonna Let Go' then ups the ante with even more raw and hard hitting breaks next to big vocals and driving brass.
Review: Times may change and life may evolve, but the Allergies will always be unashamed party-starters whose records are both pleasingly heavy and instantly accessible. By now, you shouldn't need further proof og their skills in this department, but if you do, the Bristol combo's latest "45" is a lesson is dancefloor-igniting goodness. 'Lean on You' is a live and funk-fuelled as you'd expect, with distinctive flash-fried funk-rock guitar riffs, bustling, interestingly slung breakbeats and a fine lead vocal from Dynamite MC. Over on the flip, 'Working on Me' is a more bluesy, cut-and-paste funk breaks number that's guaranteed to get feet moving out on the dancefloor.
Mike Mars (dirty Digital anthem remix edit) (6:30)
HB Remix (Malik's Linwood mix) (6:53)
Review: Beyond Jazz Volume 1 from Truth Manifest Records, spearheaded by Malik Alston, is a vibrant blend of jazz fusion, electronica and soulful dance music. This vinyl release marks the first in a four-part series, setting the tone for a futuristic sonic journey. Alston's production weaves together melodic landscapes with rhythmic precision, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. Tracks like 'Can You Feel Me' and 'Tour Detroit' are standouts, combining deep grooves with lush, soulful melodies, while 'Long Time' brings a reflective vibe, effortlessly melding jazz with electronic textures. The inclusion of remixes and edits adds a fresh twist, drawing from Malik's Beyond Jazz radio show on motionfm.com. Alston's mastery in blending genres is evident throughout the EP. His long-standing influence in Detroit's music scene shines, reinforcing his position as a boundary-pushing producer and artist. Beyond Jazz Volume 1 is ideal for anyone craving innovative, soulful music.
Review: Nestor Alvarez's Midnight in Havana on Original Gravity delivers an electrifying Afro-Cuban instrumental jam that transports listeners to the vibrant streets of Havana. With a mesmerising flute lead and dynamic jam sessions, the track exudes a captivating energy that feels like a theme song for the city's bustling nightlife. The infusion of Cuban soul adds depth and authenticity to the music, immersing listeners in its rich cultural heritage. On the B-side, Alvarez offers a creative cover version of the Happy Mondays' 'Kinky Afro,' reimagined with a Cuban twist. The fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and the iconic melody of the original song results in a fresh and exciting interpretation that showcases Alvarez's versatility as a musician. Fans of Latin and Cuban dance music are sure to eat this up.
Review: Original Gravity's very own identity-invention Nestor Alvarez returns with yet another two new and hot Latin funk productions. 'Plata O Plomo' takes its namesake from an old Spanish adage, literally translating to English to mean "silver or lead", implying that the recipient of the phrase must either accept a bribe or lose their life. In keeping with this heavy-handed theme, the track is punchy and surface-tense as a bullet yet to exit the barrel. Meanwhile, 'Reality For Nuttin' gets at an equally nihilistic and existential theme, all while finding joy in the conundrum of life with huge rhythm guitars and pop-out pianos and brasses.
Review: As reliable as rain on a British summer day, Original Gravity is back with more brilliance from the world of funk here in the form of a pair of different versions of the same original tune, 'Burning Spear', on one heavily limited edition 7".Nestor Alvarez kicks things off with a sunny, Latin-tinged sound that is high on fluttery flute energy with some nice raw drums and dancing keys below. La Machine D'Argent smooths things out just a touch and layers in some more spaced-out sounds to make it a header excursion into funk.
Review: The Mighty Eye label has been mighty fine in its work so far and this 16th outing is another doozy for funk lovers. The Ancient Cosmonauts are at the helm and that's a perfect name for a band that blends classic funk with cosmic moods. 'Free As I Wanna Be' is conversational and instrumental brilliance with sombre lead horns and gentle live drums sinking you into a mellow mood. 'Intergalactical Travel' takes flight on more astral lines and has a little more bite in the drums but this is still a warm, heartfelt sound.
Review: Australian soul singer Stella Angelico has been at it since 2012, and now, signaling yet more to come, we hear a fresh 7" documenting her work with Cookin' On 3 Burners, a Melbourne-based band whose specialism is Hammond organ funk and soul. On the A we've got 'I'm Comin' Home To You', a nimble pop-soul of impeccable quality, expressing the joy of a long-awaited return. The B-sider, 'Whole Woman', is more of a monologue and slow jam, expressing the joy of staying fully embodied and grounded.
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