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Athens Of The North Schallplatten & CDs

Browse the latest Vinyl & CD releases on Athens Of The North
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I See A World
Cat: ATH 172. Rel: 30 Jan 25
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
I See A World (3:33)
GIve Me Love (Always) (3:44)
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.
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Tags: Jazz Funk
 in stock $21.08
Changes
Changes (LP)
Cat: AOTNLP 066. Rel: 25 Jan 24
 
Soul
Check 4 U (3:48)
It's Not About Me (3:19)
Best Thing (3:28)
Knight In Shining Armour (4:06)
Daydreamer (5:46)
Coming Back (3:51)
Goodbye Farewell (4:32)
Life Changes You (4:24)
Let Down & Liar (4:04)
My Man (4:08)
Review: Athens of the North is back in business this new year with a couple of singles as well as a new album dropping before the end of January. This time it is Bo'vel's Changes album that gets served up on wax having teased the act by including them on a compilation Just A Touch late last year. Their soul sound is distantly UK-centric but with influxes from dub, funk and more. That is well showcased here across ten tracks that were famously made in the mid-90s in Manchester without a big budget or big press campaign but became cult classics all the same.
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 in stock $27.19
Where Will I Go
Cat: ATH 070. Rel: 30 Jun 21
 
Soul
Where Will I Go (4:09)
Always (4:34)
Review: North Carolina's Brief Encounter were one of the bands to define the 70's US soul sound but, unlike many of their peers, the group remained in the sights of crate diggers and specialists, straying away from significant commercial success. This particular single, for instance, wasn't even released officially and has remained the stuff of legends until now, so it's thanks to the reliable Athens Of The North that we're able to give it a spin on our turntables. Put simply, "Where Will I Go" and "Always" are two unmissable soul ballads that are simply impossible not to appreciate and get excited by - they encapsulate a particular note of optimism and romance that represented the 1970s in America, taking us on a journey into the past. Don't miss it!
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 in stock $6.10
Cool Cool
Cat: ATH 188. Rel: 26 Sep 24
 
Soul
Cool Cool (3:31)
Cool Cool (ECLA Beautiful dub) (3:32)
Review: James Alexander Bright's new sinle, Cool Cool, is a sonic kaleidoscope brimming with vibrant sounds and deep emotion. Bright's distinctive voice, reminiscent of Eddie Chacon, Beck or Michael McDonald, shines throughout. His multi-instrumental prowessiplaying guitar, bass, keys, and moreiadds layers of complexity to the record. Cool Cool illustrates Bright's evolving sound and unwavering creativity, making it a compelling addition to his diverse discography. The 'ECLA Beautiful dub' adds a great alternative version that provides a broken down moody version of the original to balance the 7". Both sides are excellent.
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 in stock $13.04
Fall For You
Cat: ATH 181. Rel: 15 Feb 24
 
Soul
Fall For You (3:24)
Viper Flames (3:23)
Review: Multi-talented artist James Alexander Bright unveils soulful anthem 'Fall For You' and funky track 'Viper Flames' in the superb Athens of the North, all as a tease his forthcoming third solo album on the label in mid-2024. Reflecting on love's power in 'Fall For You', Bright's upcoming release follows his acclaimed debut album 'Headroom' and contributions to Groove Armada's 'Edge Of The Horizon'. His second album, 'Float', garnered praise for its eclectic blend of styles. These new tuns show what he is all about - sunny soul with standout keys and dreamy vocals that melt even the stoniest of hearts.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Soul
 in stock $9.71
Cool Cool
Cool Cool (limited cassette)
Cat: AOTCASS 171. Rel: 25 Jul 24
 
Soul
Straight Line (3:40)
Your Love (5:00)
Fall For You (3:23)
Cool Cool (3:27)
Catch My Breath (3:27)
Aguas Blancas (5:19)
I Feel Alive (Fear Letherette) (3:53)
YSYSYS (4:08)
Fuzzy Yellow Magic (0:44)
Hear (feat David Matsiko) (4:38)
Gespielt von: Marcel Vogel
 in stock $11.65
Straight Line
Cat: ATH 183. Rel: 27 Jun 24
 
Soul
Straight Line (3:52)
Oh My (3:57)
Review: British multi-hyphenate James Alexander Bright is soon to return with his third album and ahead of that you can get a taste of what to expect in the form of this irresistible electro-boogie banger. 'Straight Line', says Borght, "started out as a wonky homage to 80s & 90s radio" and is "based on the memory of meeting someone you want to stay up all night listening to music with". His voice takes the lead with LinnDrum beats and wispy synths, lithe pads and a slapping bassline. It's sultry, steamy and sure to get temperatures rising. 'Oh My' is a superb jazz-funk workout in a late-night Theo Parrish style.
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 in stock $14.15
How Close (reissue)
Cat: ATH 137. Rel: 08 Dec 22
 
Funk
How Close (4:34)
How Close (remix) (4:36)
Review: Written by James Ernard, 'How Close' is a poppy funk track with as much history as killer synths. Written after his previous Ohio-based group Perfect Element declined opening for Prince on tour, Ernard left to set up his own label (which met a similar end as he and co-founder Kennith also had a falling out over creative differences). 'How Close' is a sensational piece of 80s American pop history, with a killer synth line and earworm vocals that'll have you shaking your hips before even realising. Side B has a nippy little remix by an undisclosed producer (which is sometimes the case with such niche pieces of history), that nonetheless breathes even more life into such a colourful track. It's often the 7" records that tell us the full history of the music industry behind the scenes at that time, and this release is no different - a perfect addition to that niche 7" collection you've been building up...
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Gespielt von: Born To Shine Records
 in stock $16.63
Coast To Coast
Cat: AOTNLP 045. Rel: 21 Oct 21
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Love Is The Same (4:00)
I Want You Dear (4:38)
Paula Marie (4:45)
A Woman (Was Made To Be Loved) (4:34)
Reincarnation Of Love (4:05)
Love Is The Same (alternate instrumentals) (5:38)
Paula Marie (alternate instrumentals) (4:32)
Move Your Body (alternate instrumentals) (4:13)
Funkin' Coast To Coast (alternate instrumentals) (6:07)
Review: The second LP on Athens Of The North (Edinburgh) this month is an unreleased soul LP from the American band Coast To Coast, who only released two singles between 1982 - 1983. Core members Mark Beiner and Ben Iverson were involved with acts such as 'The Hornets, Nue Dey Express and Crown Heights Affair in the early '70's. Other band members consisted of Joe Crowley, Carl (Woody Wood) Morton and Jimmy Johnson. Woody and Jimmy used to play together in the early days of seminal rap outfit Run DMC in St. Albans, Queens. Worth a listen for the soothing soul power of 'Paila Marie' alone.
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Tags: Soul Disco
 in stock $23.86
Love Is The Same
Cat: ATH 176. Rel: 25 Jan 24
 
Soul
Love Is The Same (4:13)
Love Is The Same (instrumental) (4:05)
Review: It's always a buzz to see a new Athens of the North 7" drop onto our shelves. This first drop of the year comes from label regulars Coast to Coast who had their unreleased and self-titled soul album reissued here back in October 2021. It is the opening track from that glorious record that gets its own pressing on 45 rpm here with an instrumental on the flip. The original from core members Mark Beiner and Ben Iverson, 'Love Is The Same' has glorious vocal falsettos and super sweet rhythms that bring feel-good vibes like no other.
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 in stock $6.10
Paula Marie
Cat: ATH 182. Rel: 23 May 24
 
Soul
Paula Marie (4:31)
Crack (instrumental) (4:16)
Review: Athens of the North has got a couple of belters landing this month (to be honest, when do they ever serve up anything else?). The sone is a modern soul delight by Mark Beiner and his co-writer Ben Iverson, and the subject is Beiner's ex-girlfriend. It is a superb floater that carries you up above the dance floor with its lush horns and crooning vocals, while the flipside is much more raw. 'Crack (instrumental)' is a proto-hip hop beat with early electro stylings and some old school rap bars to add even more flavour. Two very different but equally great jams.
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 in stock $9.71
Good Feelin'
Cat: AOTN 12019. Rel: 26 Jan 23
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Good Feelin' (Full unreleased version) (4:34)
See The World (Full unreleased version) (5:34)
Review: Coco & Ben were a partnership between Benjamin Robinson of Ben And The Squeeze Tight Band and an uncredited singer (presumably the Coco of the title), who came together for one perfect and extremely rare single from 1979. Now Athens Of The North have dusted down these two smooth as silk soulful disco jams and given them a fresh pressing. 'Good Feelin' is a mellow, soul-feeding cut for Sunday afternoon reveries and toe-tapping country drives alike. 'See The World' is a more sultry affair for those who like their grooves to dig in a little deeper.
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 in stock $16.92
November 18, 1983
Cat: ATH 189. Rel: 01 May 25
 
Funk
November 18 1983 (4:16)
November 18 1983 (dub) (4:39)
Review: You can always rely on Athens of the North to sure up pure gold each and every time. This is another case in point: Chris Rael's 'November 18, 1983' is a joyful, funky gem, somewhat reminiscent of a lost Cure record, and this is its first ever appearance on vinyl. Rael's dedication to creating something distinct by working progressive jazz and new wave into a new sound shines through. Despite initial doubts about his musical abilities, Rael's imagination and determination drove him to produce this layered work, which has long been out of print. Whether or not you have heard it before, you don't want to snooze on this one.A
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 in stock $16.09
So Sad
So Sad (7")
Cat: ATH 107. Rel: 26 Aug 21
 
Soul
So Sad (4:35)
Maybe What You Do Comes Back On You (3:46)
Review: Crystal Winds is best known for a supreme and sophisticated funk and soul album that was released in 1982 on the Cash Ear label. The tunes from it have never reportedly been on 7" before, so the Athens of the North label boss made it his mission to right that wrong. This one offers up some hugely classy soul sounds for more tender DJ sets or lazy Sunday listening sessions. 'So Sad' is awash with golden chords and intimate, spoken word exchanges between lovers, and on the flip 'Maybe What You Do Comes Back On You' slows down even further, sinking you deep into the richness of the arrangement.
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 in stock $12.76
Just A Touch: Underground UK Soul Compiled By Sam Don
Sam DON / VARIOUS
Cat: AOTNLP 063. Rel: 12 Oct 23
 
Soul
Bovel - "Coming Back" (3:52)
Sam - "Life" (club mix) (4:10)
Marcelle Moncrieffe - "Take Me There" (4:37)
Kofi - "Step By Step" (4:16)
Pure Silk - "What You Do For Me" (4:37)
Jenny B - "Sexy Eyes" (club mix) (5:18)
Sonja Ryshard - "Step Back" (5:38)
Cavalier - "Don't Touch" (5:07)
Purely Fizzycal - "Straight To The Top" (7:17)
Dennis Planter - "I Still Dream Of You" (4:02)
Taffy - "Passion" (7:11)
Weekend In Paris - "Hold Your Head Up" (3:55)
Review: After his hugely well received lovers' rock compilations for this label, Sam Don digs deep into the rich world of UK sweet soul on this - typically - excellent new compilation from the wondrous ashes of the North. He comes up with plenty of mega hard to find and expensive musical treasures that have all been painstakingly researched and tracked down. It was a short lived but fertile scene in the underground back in the 90s and if you didn't; know that already you will after one listen through of this - the sounds are highly danceable with silky, low-lit melodies and steamy and seductive vocals for loved up late night dancing.
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 in stock $31.63
Watchin' You
Cat: ATH 044. Rel: 23 Mar 17
 
Soul
Watchin' You (4:09)
To The Sky (4:39)
Review: Little is known about Friction Band's hyper-rare 45" besides the fact it's a brilliant example of outsider, slightly experimental style of modern soul, it's passed hands for strong triple figures in recent years and it's just been injected with a whole new lease of life by Fryer. "Watchin' You" is a footloose boogie jam with unabashed use of freeform keys while "To The Sky" flips for a softer, more sentimental soul affair that's fringed by just the right amount of dreamy cosmicity. Another precision find by AOTN.
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Gespielt von: Dan Mela, Soul Music
 in stock $11.93
If You Feel It Say Yeah
Cat: ATH 191. Rel: 30 Jan 25
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
If You Feel It Say Yeah (4:29)
Lost The Love (4:18)
Review: The Fruit Band hails from Jacksonville and is one of the finest funk practitioners the city has ever produced. The sharp earned amongst you will already know that Athens of the North released a previously unrelated album from the group some years back. That is now resisted and some of the key tunes from it get their own real on a standalone 45 in a handmade folder cover. It is a one-time pressing with the upbeat energy of 'If You Feel It Say Yeah' and the contrasting mellow magic of 'Lost The Love ' on the flip.
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Tags: Disco Funk
 in stock $16.92
All The Way Down
Cat: ATH 139. Rel: 25 Jan 24
 
Funk
All The Way Down (3:16)
Tonight's The Night (3:40)
Review: Athens of the North has a famously busy rate of release and so it is no surprise that they keep that up even in the first months of the year. A slew of singles and an album are all dropping at the same time and this is one of them - yet another gold standard reissue, this time of Charles Barnwell's band The Funnybone Express. This 7" is a superb bit of deep funk with hints of modern soul that were huge back in the day and are sure to be so all over again now.
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 in stock $10.27
The Sands Of Zanzibar
Cat: ATH 132. Rel: 12 Oct 23
 
Soul
The Sands Of Zanzibar (part 1) (3:49)
The Sands Of Zanzibar (part 2) (3:10)
Review: The supply of superlative sounds from Athens Of The North knows no bounds - rarely does a week go by with out the well regarded reissue label coming thorough with yet another obscure, forgotten, overlooked or rare gem that has is immediately fall in love. Falling into those categories again is this 7" 'The Sands of Zanzibar, Pt. 1' from Leonard Grandson. It is a floating groove that will swells the heart and is super hard to find in original form. It is thought to be from 1977 and was recorded in a Hollywood studio. Leonard sounds not unlike Steve Wonder and really hits a sweet spot on this one.
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 in stock $14.70
Beautiful Day
Cat: AOE 036. Rel: 28 Mar 19
 
Funk
Beautiful Day (2:52)
Beautiful Day (Drums) (3:00)
Review: Athens Of The North celebrate the longstanding contributions of host, presenter, writer, personality and occasional singer Bernard "Spider" Harrison. Recorded sometime around 1970, and fetching large triple figures between collectors, the feel good bluesy soul cut "Beautiful Day" first landed on Lulu Records and has barely seen the light of day since... Until now. And it's loaded with a never-before-released drum cut. Don't sleep, though. Only 500 of these have been pressed.
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 in stock $11.65
Confrontation
Confrontation (limited 7")
Cat: ATH 019. Rel: 13 Mar 19
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Confrontation (3:46)
You & Me Babe (4:20)
Review: The Athens of the North label is a blessing for those whose tastes in soul, funk, disco and boogie tend towards the obscure and ludicrously hard-to-find. Their latest re-issue fits into both categories. Seemingly the only single they ever released, "Confrontation" came out in 1981 on Arista but copies have since proved incredibly hard to find; so hard, in fact, that original 7" singles now change hands online for nearly L300. The title track, produced by A Taste of Honey's Perry Kibble, is brilliant, though, delivering a soulful, heartfelt disco-funk jam full of smooth backing vocals, bubbling clavinet lines and deliciously righteous horns.
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 in stock $8.04
You're My Only Desire
Cat: ATH 187. Rel: 24 Oct 24
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
You're My Only Desire (vocal) (4:39)
You're My Only Desire (Lower vocal) (4:39)
Review: A standout slice of modern soul and disco straight from NYC, penned by producer Alan Jones. This release switches things up from the original by offering a unique B-side with a lower vocal mix, crafted for DJs who want a fresh take for their sets. With a groovy, infectious energy, this updated version is perfect for the dancefloor. A must-have for collectors and DJs alike, this 45 is guaranteed to get the crowd moving.
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Gespielt von: Marcel Vogel, Danijel Kevic
 in stock $9.76
Waiting In The Wings
Cat: ATH 133. Rel: 02 Mar 23
 
Soul
Waiting In The Wings (East Cost Love Affair mix) (3:16)
Waiting In The Wings (2:56)
Review: It's a busy time for Athens of the North - to be fair when isn't it - as the Edinburgh label drops a couple of real gems this month. Marion Javius's 'Waiting In The Wings' originally dropped in 1978 and the head of this label loved the track but for a couple of aspects to it. Years later, he discovered that a friend of the label David Haffner "had been sitting on the multi-track tapes for some time and was cool with us doing a 45." So here we have the original on the B-side, and the slightly tweaked and edited new East Cost Love Affair version on the a-side. It's a great touch-up job if you ask us.
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 in stock $9.97
Be My Lady
Cat: ATH 098. Rel: 25 Feb 21
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Be My Lady (4:40)
Come Out Tonight (4:19)
Review: Some boogie collectors go weak at the knees at the mention of Christopher Jay's 'What Do You Want Me To Do', a superb single from 1987 that's long been near impossible to find. This isn't that gem, but something arguably even more exciting: some previously unreleased business from the same obscure, overlooked artist. 'Be My Lady' dates from a similar period and sees Jay sing swooning words to a member of the opposite sex over a sunny and kaleidoscopic blend of rubbery bass, clipped guitars and shiny synthesizers. Flipside 'Come Out Tonight' is rather tasty, too. Slower and even warmer, it sits somewhere between 80s soul and yacht rock.
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 in stock $12.76
Our Love
Cat: ATH 086. Rel: 01 Oct 20
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Our Love (4:23)
It's Up To You (3:57)
Review: It was back in 1986 when obscure UK electrofunk band Leval released their sole 7" - a sparkling slab of pop-boogie brilliance that has long been a secret weapon for dusty-fingered diggers and Brit-funk collectors. As this Athens of the North reissue proves, the record remains a brilliant Brit-boogie gem. Check first 'Our Love', a confirmed earworm that sees the band wrap duetting male/female vocals around a deliciously bustling blend of rubbery slap-bass, eyes-closed soft rock guitars, warm synthesizer chords and a dewy-eyed, jazz-funk style breakdown. Flipside 'It's Up To You' is a little more eccentric thanks to an unusual time signature and drum track, but boasts the same addictive blend of male and female lead vocals, slap bass and synths.
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Gespielt von: I Love Disco!, I Love 45's!
Tags: Disco Funk
 in stock $6.94
James McKenzie & The McKenzie Brothers
Cat: AOTNLP 022. Rel: 29 Aug 19
 
Soul
James McKenzie - "Lady Is Love" (3:16)
James McKenzie - "Live Again" (4:10)
James McKenzie - "Two Ladies" (3:59)
The McKenzie Brothers - "Hope She Don't Hurt You" (5:06)
James McKenzie - "Wonderful To Be In Love" (3:45)
The McKenzie Brothers - "Felt Her Fire" (4:00)
James McKenzie - "I've Got To Go" (3:37)
James McKenzie - "Birth Is Love" (6:46)
The McKenzie Brothers - "Joni's Little Song" (2:02)
The McKenzie Brothers - "Lonley Girl" (4:00)
The McKenzie Brothers - "Tomorrow Is Your Own" (2:48)
 in stock $9.97
You Can Tell Me Goodbye (reissue)
Cat: ATH 140. Rel: 27 Jul 23
 
Soul
You Can Tell Me Goodbye (2:41)
I've Gotta Keep On Lovin' You (4:10)
Review: Athens of The North delivers once again here with another delightful reissue of a soul classic by Bernetia Miller And The Soul Groovers. An original of this Georgian gem is insanely rare and in fact the Athens boss himself has never actually seen a copy. It was recorded in the studio of Phil Walden's studio in Macon, Georgia and Bernetia herself has said it took many takes and plenty of hard work to get the result they wanted. Backing band The Soul Groovers had their own bus on which they toured plenty and this reissue is from the master tapes owned by Bernetia. 'You Can Tell Me Goodbye' has lo-fi drums and raw horns with a yearning vocal while 'I've Gotta Keep On Lovin' You' is more slow and steady and emotionally moving with a more tender vocal.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Soul
 in stock $9.97
Look A Little Higher
Cat: AOTNLP 057. Rel: 23 Jun 22
 
Funk
Money Won't Change You (3:33)
It's Bad (3:08)
Good Thing (2:31)
Best Of Luck To You (3:02)
That's What I Get (2:11)
That's The Sound Of My Heart (2:20)
How Long Must I Wait For You (2:29)
Foxy Mama (2:36)
Look A Little Higher (2:43)
I Take What I Want (2:26)
She's Got To Be Loved (2:42)
Just A Dream (2:02)
To Love Me Like You Do (2:49)
There's Gonna Be A Better Day Coming (2:37)
Review: The glorious Athens of the North label will always be one of our favourites. It is pretty much buy on sight for lovers of soul, funk and disco and this month it is serving up two more unmissable long players. Here it is Ike and The Uptights and their superb sounds which make, what me might bravely, say, could be one of this always high class label's finest releases. Formed by Henry Bradley in Forrest City, The Uptights recorded for Memphis label Action Records and here we get a perfect window into their world of raw and guttural funk.
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 in stock $9.71
Money Wont Change You
Cat: ATH 151. Rel: 23 May 24
 
Jazz
Money Won't Change You (3:34)
She's Got To Be Loved (2:42)
Review: As they often tend to do, a whole bunch of Anthems of the North 7"s have landed hit smooth and as ever they are all gold. This one is an Ike Noble 45s that comes pressed up with original-style silver ink overprinted labels. Kicking this one off is a previously unreleased cover of James Brown's classic 'Money Won't Change You'. It has some raw-as-hell horns and driving funk breaks that will light up any club and might even be better than the original. The B-side is a sweet as you like ballad that pairs off male and female vocals and deep soul, expressive horns and bittersweet grooves.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Jazz
 in stock $9.97
It's Bad
Cat: ATH 152. Rel: 23 May 24
 
Soul
It's Bad (3:07)
Best Of Luck To You (3:07)
Review: Athens Of The North latest release features includes the rare gem 'It's Bad' on the A-side, a brilliant mid-tempo soul chugger that sits perfectly between the styles of Syl Johnson and James Brown. Its failure to achieve fame during its time remains a mystery. On the flip side, 'Best of Luck to You' delves into deep soul territory, offering a rendition that surpasses both Sam Baker's and Earl Gaines' versions. This 45, with the original style silver ink overprinted labels, not only captures the essence of vintage soul but also present an invaluable addition to any collector's repertoire, showcasing Ike Noble & The Uptights at their finest.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Soul
 in stock $9.97
Good Thing
Cat: ATH 153. Rel: 23 May 24
 
Soul
Good Thing (2:31)
Look A Little Higher (2:44)
Review: Ike Noble & The Uptights deliver pure soul magic with their latest release. 'Good Thing' is a mid-tempo soul gem that oozes with irresistible charm, drawing comparisons to the likes of Syl Johnson and James Brown. It's a track that demands attention and leaves listeners craving more. On the flip side, 'Look a Little Higher' is a deep soul anthem of epic proportions. Despite its rarity, it's a track that resonates deeply with its emotive vocals and soul-stirring melodies. Together, these two songs showcase Ike Noble's talent and the timeless appeal of his music. With beautifully pressed 45s and original style silver ink overprinted labels, this release is a must-have for soul aficionados everywhere. Ike Noble & The Uptights prove once again that their music is solid gold.
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 in stock $10.83
You're So Fine
You're So Fine (limited 7'')
Cat: ATH 077. Rel: 10 Jun 21
 
Funk
You're So Fine (2:57)
Sweetest Thing On This Side Of Heaven (3:45)
Review: This excellent 7" single from Athens Of The North boasts more desirable deep funk business. This time dusty-fingered digger Euan Fryer has secured the rights to a sought-after seven from Papa Bear & His Cubs, a long-serving combo whose sole "45" has long been a sought-after item amongst serious soul and funk heads. "You're So Fine" may sound like it was recorded in a cement mixer on a cheap portable tape recorder, but musically it's soul bliss - a wonderfully languid, loved-up song blessed with a superb lead vocal and languid instrumentation. "Sweetest Thing On This Side Of Heaven" is, if anything, even more dewy-eyed - a seductive slow jam whose saccharine lyrics are delivered with heartfelt passion.
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 in stock $9.97
Color Me (reissue)
Cat: AOE 035. Rel: 22 Aug 19
 
Funk
Color Me (2:32)
Misty Shade Of Pink (2:35)
Review: Way back in 1970, People In The News released their sole single on Knap Town, a tiny label based in Indiana. Original copies of that funk "45" are notoriously hard to find, thanks in no small part to the quality of both cuts. Step forward Athens Of The North boss Euan Fryer, who has secured the rights to reissue the single for the first time. A-side "Color Me" is the real bomb: a down-low chunk of mid-tempo funk with politically charged group vocals, rasping guitar licks and hip-hop style drum breaks. Over on side B, "Misty Shade Of Pink" is the kind of rock solid instrumental funk workout you'd expect to hear from the Meters.
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 in stock $12.76
The Prince Of Georgia Soul
Cat: AOTNLP 049. Rel: 23 Jun 22
 
Soul
Lonely Girl (3:06)
Sexy Lady (3:54)
If You Want My Love (5:09)
My Love (3:57)
Let's Get Together For The Wrong We Have Done (2:54)
Whatcha Gonna Do About It (3:54)
You Are The One For Me (3:05)
Oh Baby Why You Want To Make Me Cry (2:55)
You Talk Too Much (3:59)
It's You Girl (4:00)
Review: It's time for another one of Athens of the North's magnificent reissue albums, this time with Arthur Ponder in the spotlight. The Georgia resident started singing in the 1960s, at first replacing Otis Redding in Johnny Jenkins & The Pinetoppers after Redding left. His first recording came in 1970 after years spent gigging hard and then he carried on well into the 80s making great tunes. It is that decade which is represented here with some solo tunes and some alongside local group Side Show. She are unreleased, some have previously been on 45 pm, all are gold.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Soul
 in stock $9.97
Here In The Name Of Love
Cat: ATH 161. Rel: 23 May 24
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Here In The Name Of Love (3:32)
Righteous Love (4:13)
Review: Hurrah for a new one from the ever-excellent Athens of the North label. This time the disco and funk maestros look to a hidden gem from the band Premonition. This group was also sometimes billed as Premonitions, but were always on form. This cut is a modern soul dancer that is pretty impossible to find in its original form and kicks off with an A-side that is a well-crafted proto-disco track. Flip it over and you will be rewired with a more sweet and soulful jam that borders on cheesy but strikes a delicate balance and offers exhilarating crescendos. It's a delightful journey worth exploring, particularly for those who appreciate soulful nuances.
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Tags: Soul Disco
 in stock $10.83
My Love Box
Cat: ATH 167. Rel: 01 May 25
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
My Love Box (4:20)
Juicy (4:00)
Review: Two of James "Gem" Prewitt's two early 80s disco-funk tracks, 'My Love Box' (1981) and 'Juicy' (1983), come courteously reissued via AOTN, raring a snapshot of his exceptional talents and entrepreneurial funk fastenings. Recorded in St. Louis, Missouri, 'My Love Box' marked the beginning of Prewitt's journey, with the 27-year-old attending Forrest Park Community College at the same time as establishing his own label, Keyes Production. Not only did he write, produce, and perform all these tracks, but local success with 'My Love Box' inspired him to team up with Loretta Mathison for the creation of 'Juicy', which ensues here as the orally honeyed slow jam of choice, and which picks up the pace at the midpoint through gospel operatics and wooing coos. This collaboration led to a two-year singing tour, firelighting them from beneath and propelling them from the Philippines to Germany.
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 in stock $16.09
Space Saver (reissue)
Cat: ATH 130. Rel: 08 Dec 22
 
Soul
Space Saver (4:31)
Candybar Superstar (3:29)
Review: Athens Of The North will always be one of our favourite labels no matter what they're serving up. The Edinburgh-based deep diggers this time look to Race 'N Rhythm, which was once upon a time a 12-member jazz group based in Oakland. Jazz-master Rudolph Peters managed the multi-racial band and though they were admired on the vocal live circuit they only ever released one single before later doing an album. 'Space Saver' was recorded in California in 1982 and is a sultry and romantic soul sound with leads and coy rhythms. 'Candybar Superstar' on the backside is a pure fire dancefloor heater with high-energy claps, horns and vocals.
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 in stock $9.97
Let Go
Let Go (7")
Cat: ATH 053. Rel: 24 Aug 17
 
Soul
Let Go (5:42)
Will You Be There (4:33)
Review: Following the excellent excavation of the Miami band's unreleased album Best Kept Secret, AOTN's Fryer treats us to his two favourite cuts on a 500-only never-to-be-repressed 45. Seeped in powerful vocal harmonies, "Let Go" is rare groove gold with smooth sax and a dynamic that keeps on surprising while "Will You Be There" is an end of night soul shakedown with a tenderness that's tangible in every element. Don't sleep on this... Or the album. One of AOTN's most exciting releases this year.
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Tags: Soul Disco
 in stock $6.10
Strung Out (On Your Love)
Cat: ATH 111. Rel: 09 Sep 21
 
Soul
Strung Out (On Your Love) (4:21)
All My Love For You (4:18)
Review: Athens Of The North has never been shy in putting out music. The label is always working on a wealth of different projects it seems and this month drops a couple of very tasty - as per usual - 7"s. Rivage was a leading band in the 70s modern soul scene and one long loved by the Athens label head. He put out a first-ever reissue of their Sit-in On It LP last year and now serves up some of the singles from it, namely the flute-led joy of 'Strung Out On Your Love' and 'All My Love For You,' a comforting soul tune with swirling grooves and classic falsetto vocals. Lovely stuff.
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 in stock $11.93
Get Together (reissue)
Cat: ATH 190. Rel: 30 Jan 25
 
Soul
Get Together (4:41)
Once I Leave (3:43)
Review: Originally released by Ohio on 7" in 1978, this lesser known moment in late 70s funk and soul gets a beautifully crafted reissue as it resurfaces after 47 years. Side-1's 'Get Together' is a joyous, horn-driven soul anthem. Its infectious energy, party-ready vibe and well-balanced backing vocals create a timeless feel. The lead vocals shine brightly, supported by a tight groove that keeps the track irresistibly uplifting. On Side-2, 'Once I Leave' shifts gears into a downtempo, sublime expression of soul, the slower tempo allowing the song's emotion to take centre stage, complemented by delicate instrumentation that evokes a sense of longing and introspection. A forgotten treasure brought back to life.
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Gespielt von: Admin, Juno Recommends Soul
Tags: Disco Funk
 in stock $16.92
Strictly Business
Cat: ATH 146. Rel: 01 May 25
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Strictly Business (3:58)
Still In Love (4:19)
Review: More golden goodness from Athens of the North here - the label that never runs out of soul and disco goodness. Strictly Business hail from Dayton, Ohio and deliver a double-sider gem of deep 80s soul on this rare 7". One side brings pure boogie heat and is funky, driving and brilliantly dancefloor-ready, while the flip slows it down with a more smooth and heartfelt ballad. Originally self-released with the help of friends and family, the record flew under the radar until rediscovered by Daniel Mathis, who helped license it for release here in limited quantities. A fine and soulful slice of overlooked Midwest magic.
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Gespielt von: Marcel Vogel
Tags: Disco Funk
 in stock $16.09
Everything That's Good In Life
Cat: ATH 121. Rel: 28 Apr 22
 
Soul
Everything That's Good In Life (4:29)
Hold Me Close (4:17)
Review: It will shock no one that this week along, Edinburgh based label Athens of the North has a wealth of great new music out. This 7" is another one from William Stuckey. The last one came last year but sadly, only after the man himself had passed away. But they follow it up with another gem that comes with the blessing of the man's family. 'Everything That's Good In Life' has never been released before but is as good as his material gets and is sure to become another classic. ON the reverse is an alternate 7" mix of 'Hold Me Close' that cuts deep.
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Gespielt von: Juno Recommends Soul
 in stock $9.97
Give It Up
Give It Up (limited 7")
Cat: ATH 123. Rel: 26 Jan 23
 
Soul
Give It Up (4:41)
Let's Talk It Over (3:39)
Review: Produced in 1986 by one Willie Harpe, 'Give It Up' was originally written by TL ('Tom Lipkins'), a fake moniker for little-cited artists George Mahood and Soul Sam. Never before seeing the light of day, it's a testament to just how little talent corresponds with recognition in the music market - this is heartbreaking music, produced with the utmost quality. 'Give It Up' combines loose drumming and a misty, boxy reverb on the master to produce a red-lit mood of sultriness, as TL wails and belts over a dozy soul groove. 'Let's Talk It Over', meanwhile, is a stunning lullaby for breaking up to make up.
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Tags: Soul Disco
 in stock $9.97
Is It What You Want?
Cat: AOTNLP 54. Rel: 29 Sep 22
 
Soul
Rock This Mother (0:24)
Talk To Me Girl (2:08)
You Can Find Me (0:39)
Check This Out (0:04)
Jesus Going To Clean House (5:27)
Hope You Understood (0:50)
Is It What You Want (3:22)
Love Is Everlasting (0:09)
This Is Hip-Hop Art (3:57)
Opposite Of Love (2:40)
Do You Know What I Mean (0:52)
Saving All My Love For You (1:23)
Look Out Here I Come (3:21)
Girl You Always Talking (0:26)
Have A Great Day (4:49)
Take My Hand (2:14)
I Need Your Love (1:37)
Your Town (2:32)
Talk Around Town (1:45)
Booty Head/Take A Little Walk (2:57)
I Love My Mama (0:05)
I Never Found Anyone Like You (1:13)
Review: A record unlike any other, 'Is That What You Want' is a fascinating slice of what some might call 'outsider soul', but even that label can't do full justice to the music here. Part of a wholly unrecognised community of DIY musicians living in East Philadelphia in the 1980s, Lee Tracy and Isaac Manning were a vocal, instrumental and production duo whose efforts flew sorely under the radar at the time that they laid these slick slices of experimental joy to tape. Bleeding a shocking transfusion of gospel, electro, lo-fi, funk and soul, this is a worthy slice of Afrofuturism existing outside the jazz connotation. "We never went to no studio," retorts Manning, showing off the pair's homespun ingenuity. Bolstered by a slew of DIY videos shot in Lee's front garden, this has everything from black Southern IDM to machine-glitched proto-raps. It deserves all the recognition it can get.
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 in stock $25.25
Is It What You Want?
Cat: ATH 177. Rel: 25 Apr 24
 
Soul
Is It What You Want? (3:34)
Saving All My Love For You (3:38)
Review: We've said it before and we shall always continue saying it, Athens Of The North is one of the best labels in the game. The Edinburgh outlet is an essential resource for lovers of disco, soul and funk and puts out a dizzying amount if music from those worlds, often in the form of sought-after classics or overlooked gems. This time out we have two singles taken from the Is It What You Want album by Lee Tracy & Isaac Manning that was put out back in 2022. The title cut is a heart-swelling bit of lo-fi blue-eyed soul with hazy organs and minimal drums, while 'Saving All My Love For You' is a swirling soul sound that is caked in layers of dust and emotional pain.
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 in stock $15.26
Not A Minute Too Late
Cat: ATH 105. Rel: 30 Sep 21
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
Not A Minute Too Late (3:57)
I'm A Believer (4:04)
Review: Athens Of The North's faultless run continues with this fresh new 7" from the United Spiritual Singers, about whom we know nothing. It is their one and only release on Discogs and it is from this year, which is remarkable given the authenticity of these super sweet and heart-aching soul sounds. A-side 'Not A Minute Too Late' is a bustling disco number with a funky rhythm section and big, characterful horns powering the groove along. The flip side is a slow, sultry number with plaintive chords and rich backing vocals adding a buttery feel to this real melter.
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Tags: Soul Disco
 in stock $12.20
Disco With A Feeling: An Introduction To The Heart & Soul Of Independent Disco
VARIOUS
Cat: AOTNCD 021. Rel: 24 Oct 19
 
Soul
Ice - "Reality"
Cloudburst - "I'm Loving You"
Popsicles - "These Are The Good Times"
Bileo - "You Can Win"
Mahana - "She Really Needs Love"
Jerry Blacksheer - "Defected"
Mr Wigg & Co - "You Got A Lot Of Living To Do"
Benita - "Time For A Change"
Darrell Johnson - "Days Gone Past"
Bordeaux - "Paradise's Love"
Split Decision Band - "Watchin Out"
Sequence - "Disco Thing"
Strivers Show Band - "Love Episode"
Love Company - "Love Tempo"
Gratitude - "We Are Here To Party"
Jax Transit Authority - "Life Is A Miracle"
Review: Many of the finest independent disco 45s that Athens of the North has reissued were licensed by crate digger David Haffner, so it's fitting that AOTN boss Euan Fryer has given him a compilation of his own. "Disco With A Feeling" contains some of those picks, alongside other obscure favourites from Haffner's sizable record collection. It's absolute fire from start to finish, with the little known private press and small-run cuts tending towards the more soulful and jazz-funk influenced end of the disco spectrum. Basically, it's a must-have for anyone who gravitates towards the rare end of the disco spectrum.
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 in stock $11.65
For The Love Of You Volume 2.1
VARIOUS
Cat: AOTNCD 064. Rel: 01 Sep 22
 
Soul
Lorna Fletcher - "Just The Two Of Us"
Byron Walker & Sandra Edwards - "Don't Look Any Further"
Dave Barker - "Curious"
Valerie Harrison - "Fool's Paradise"
Chosen Few - "Don't Keep Me Waiting"
Sylvia Tella - "You Might Need Somebody"
Fallon Jennings - "All Night Long"
Pete Campbell - "Holding Back The Years"
Toyin Adekale - "Smile"
Derrick Cross - "Never Too Much"
Carl Johnson - "I Wish He Didn't Trust Me So Much"
Trevor Walters - "Blood Is Thicker Than Water"
Review: Volume One of For the Love Of You was an instant hit and so it makes sense the irrepressible Athens of the North label has come back with a second volume. Once again this is a collection of soul covers featuring interpretations of Grover Washington Jr., Midnight Star, Meli'sa Morgan and Simply Red and loads more. The music is golden, the soul vibes rich, and the new styles brought to these classics is instantly appealing in a whole new way. As alwayss, this is another superb release from Athens of the North.
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 in stock $5.83
For The Love Of You Volume 2.1
VARIOUS
Cat: AOTNLP 064. Rel: 15 Dec 22
 
Roots/Lovers Rock
Lorna Fletcher - "Just The Two Of Us" (6:42)
Byron Walker & Sandra Edwards - "Don't Look Any Further" (4:21)
Dave Barker - "I'm Curious" (4:46)
Valerie Harrison - "Fools Paradise"
Chosen Few - "Don't Keep Me Waiting"
Sylvia Tella - "You Might Need Somebody"
Fallon Jennings - "All Night Long" (5:21)
Pete Campbell - "Holding Back The Years" (4:00)
Toyin Adekale - "Smile" (5:24)
Derrick Cross - "Never Too Much" (5:29)
Carl Johnson - "I Wish He Didn't Trust Me So Much" (5:05)
Trevor Walters - "Blood Is Thicker Than Water" (5:35)
Review: First released this time last year, the second instalment in Athens of the North's 'For The Love of You' compilation series returns to stores in lightly tweaked form. Like its' predecessor, the collection is a loving celebration of lovers rock, with a focus not on original songs but reggae-fied cover versions. This edition ('2.1' rather than '2') includes all but one track from the original pressing, which has been replaced by Byron Walker and Sandra Edwards' brilliant take on Dennis Edwards' 80s soul fave 'Don't Look Any Further'). It remains a brilliant comp all told, with our current favourites including Valerie Harrison's super-sweet cover of Melissa Morgan boogie classic 'Fools Paradise', a smouldering interpretation of Simply Red's 'Holding Back The Years' by Pete Cambell and a seductive shuffle through Lionel Richie's 'All Night Long' courtesy of Fallon Jennings.
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 in stock $31.07
I Would Have To Be A Fool
Cat: ATH 171. Rel: 25 Jan 24
 
Disco/Nu-Disco
I Would Have To Be A Fool (3:33)
Just Give Love A Try (4:08)
Review: Ben White - not the same Ben White that plays as a defender for Arsenal - was just 25 when he was brought by Eddy Bongo Brown of the Funk Brothers to the Motor City to play with Marvin Gaye. It was five years after that when he lay down this single - his only one, although it is said there are some lost tapes featuring a full album on them out there somewhere. We hope it is found as this is excellent - 'I Would Have To Be A Fool' is a super smooth soul with nice funky rhythms and a hint of disco energy. 'Just Give Love A Try' is a more slow and lavish groove with choral backing and fancy piano.
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 in stock $9.71
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