Back catalogue: Hip Hop/R&B

Review: The CQQL label has always come at house music from a different perspective than most, and that's certainly true once more on this latest drop, not least because it comes on 7", which is not so often associated with this genre. It is K Wash who steps up here with guest AMIRSAYSNOTHING for a low slung, swaggering cut with bold analogue drums and plenty of hip hop attitude. The mumble rap bars add another layer while snaking leads bring some West Coast cool. After that opener comes 'Protect My Neck' which ups the tempo but keeps the production raw, stripped back and suggestive, with more intimate vocals and ticking hi-hats keeping time.

Review: A chance to own this much loved pre-album classic from King Kruke aka Southwark-raised Archy Marshall on a neat 7". The track, originally issued in 2012 on the Rinse label, has all the hallmarks that would make Marshall famous, namely a lilting, emotionally direct vocal performance, some rather nifty guitar work and some rough cut breakbeats with a lovely whiff of bedroom production about them. The flip, meanwhile, is adorned with an instrumental version, making this quite the all round desirable item.

Review: We've got a lovely bit of golden-era hip-hop here from the DATUM Recordings label. It comes on 45rpm and features one jam each from King Most and Casquiat. The former goes first with 'A Tribe Called Westwood' with signature Tribe bars and a deep cut groove with raw bass. On the flip is 'Colossal Rhymes' which is a great big slice of boom-bap complete with smooth flow, organic percussion and some eerie melodies hanging in the air above the beats.

Review: After a long hiatus from solo projects, Kurious returns with Majician, an album that cements his legacy as a top-tier lyricist. Known for his 1994 debut A Constipated Monkey. Kurious delivers a fresh yet familiar sound on this new release. Produced by Mono En Stereo and executive produced by the late DOOM, Majician is a masterful blend of intricate wordplay and reflective storytelling. Tracks like 'Eye of Horus' showcase Kurious' ability to effortlessly navigate complex beats with insightful rhymes, while 'Separation Anxiety' delves deep into personal themes through sharp lyricism. 'Par For the Course' revitalises classic drum breaks, bringing a nostalgic yet innovative touch to the project. Majician is more than just a comeback; it's a powerful reaffirmation of Kurious' skill and dedication to the craft. The album's meticulous production and introspective content highlight Kurious as an MC who has not only endured but evolved.