Numero Group US Schallplatten & CDs

Review: The Numero Group's reissue of Bump & The Soul Stompers' 'I Can Remember' is a potent soul gem from 1970. Recorded at the prestigious Damon Studios in Kansas City, this single captures the essence of the city's classic-era soul scene, spearheaded by the charismatic Jerald "Bump" Scott. 'I Can Remember' is a vibrant, jubilant track that ignites with its energetic horns, echoing the lively spirit of the era. The accompanying song on Side-2, 'Standing On The Outside', slows things down with a smooth r&b vibe, perfectly balancing the upbeat nature of the flip side. The single's blend of infectious rhythm and soulful depth makes this a very desirable 45 to have.

Review: Israeli guitarist Charlie Megira has an eclectic palette, with his music blending every influence from 50s trash rock, garage, surf, and goth. 'The Hefker Girl' is a new album, coinciding with a recent reissue from his back catalogue, 'Da Abtomatic Meisterzinger Mambo Chic' - an LP which ironizes the neoliberal ethos of postwar America. This one, by contrast, charts Megira's collaborative jams with fellow Israeli instrumentalist Michal Kahan, and is a more earnest, heads-down affair. Expect reverb-drenched new wave, 80s tropes and talent on the guitar beyond common comprehension.

Review: Ozean's eponymous EP, originally recorded in 1993 but now receiving its first vinyl release, is a testament to the band's splendid blend of shimmering, ethereal shoegaze. From the moment 'Scenic' envelops listeners with its swirling distortion and awesome melodies, it's clear that Ozean's music is something special. The dreamy soundscapes of 'Fall' and 'Porcelain' further immerse the listener, transporting them to a world of otherworldly beauty and introspection. Inspired by influences like Slowdive, Cocteau Twins and Lush, Ozean's music captures the essence of the British shoegaze scene while adding their own unique twist. Lisa Baer's otherworldly vocals, influenced by Astrud Gilberto and The Jesus And Mary Chain, perfectly complement the band's atmospheric sound. Despite their brief existence and only two live shows, Ozean's impact is felt profoundly in this remastered EP. Recorded on a Fostex Model 80 1/4" 8-Track reel-to-reel tape recorder, the original cassette recordings have been meticulously remastered for this vinyl release, thanks to Tim Green of Louder Studios. Each track is a timeless snapshot of late adolescent wonder and experimentation, preserving Ozean's legacy for generations to come.

Review: Years after their 1970 sessions at Damon Studios in Kansas City, Bump & The Soul Stompers, under the direction of Jerald "Bump" Scott, adopted the name Unnatural Funk Band, a nod to the era's unconventional naming trends. Despite their efforts, "I Can Remember" failed to find a label. This led them to the famed Cavern Studios in Independence, Missouriiliterally carved out of a limestone cavern. The result is a fascinating juxtaposition of sounds: 'Living in the Past' offers a wistful, falsetto-laden journey with a laid-back narrative, evoking a nostalgic aura. In contrast, 'Strange Happenings' delivers a remarkable funk experience, revealing the band's prowess in crafting vibrant and innovative grooves. This track, a hidden gem from a virtually undocumented Kansas City soul ensemble, was uncovered with the help of Scott during the Numero Group's 2013 research for the Eccentric Soul: The Forte Label compilation. Unnatural Funk Band's release, featuring these previously unreleased tracks, represents a significant find for funk aficionados. The limited-edition 10" vinyl showcases their unique blend of nostalgic funk and innovative rhythms, a testament to the enduring impact of their music.